What Is Sushi Rice? Learn About the Best Rice for Sushi, Ingredients & Ways to Use It

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated October 13, 2022

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Sushi rice is a type of short-grain white rice that is used in sushi. It is a sticky rice that can easily be molded into shapes. Sushi rice is made from a special type of Japanese white rice called “sakemai.” It is a high-quality, short-grain rice that is grown in the Niigata Prefecture of Japan.

What is sushi rice

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What Exactly Is Sushi Rice?

Sushi rice is the heart and soul of any sushi dish. It’s a simple mixture of rice, water, and a few additional ingredients that create a sticky, fine-grain rice that’s perfect for making sushi. The main ingredient is, of course, rice, but not just any rice will do. Short-grain white rice is the best rice for sushi rice because it’s sticky and has a higher starch content than regular rice.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make sushi rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Short-grain white rice
Water
Rice vinegar
Sugar
Salt

Here’s how to make it:

1. Rinse the rice in a large bowl until the water runs clear.
2. Combine the rice and water in a medium saucepan and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. Bring the rice to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
4. Let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes, then remove it from the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves.
6. Pour the mixture over the rice and gently fold it in using a wooden spoon or paddle.
7. Let the rice cool to room temperature before using it in your sushi dishes.

The Traditional Method

The traditional method of making sushi rice involves steaming the rice instead of boiling it. This method takes a little longer, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for that super sticky texture that sushi rice is known for. Here’s how to do it:

1. Rinse the rice in a large bowl until the water runs clear.
2. Combine the rice and water in a medium saucepan and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, then let the rice steam for 20 minutes.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for an additional 10 minutes to allow the rice to absorb any remaining water.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves.
7. Pour the mixture over the rice and gently fold it in using a wooden spoon or paddle.
8. Let the rice cool to room temperature before using it in your sushi dishes.

Additional Notes

When stirring the rice vinegar mixture into the rice, be gentle to prevent the rice from becoming too mushy.
If you’re a fan of rose-colored sushi rice, you can add a little bit of beet juice to the mixture.
The word “sushi” actually refers to the vinegar-seasoned rice, not the raw fish that’s often included in sushi dishes.
Sushi rice has been around for centuries, and learning how to master it is essential for any sushi chef.
Good news for those on a budget: sushi rice is affordable and easy to buy at most grocery stores and online from companies like Amazon.
According to traditional Japanese methods, sushi rice should be wrapped in a solid, round shape to create the perfect sushi dish.

Choosing the Ideal Rice for Your Sushi Recipe

When it comes to making sushi, not all rice is created equal. The right type of rice is crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some of the most popular types of rice for sushi:

Short-grain white rice: This is the most commonly used rice for sushi. It is sticky and has a high starch content, which allows it to hold together well when rolled.
Medium-grain white rice: This type of rice is slightly less sticky than short-grain rice but still works well for sushi.
Brown rice: Brown rice is a healthier option than white rice, but it is not as sticky and may not hold together as well when rolled.
Calrose rice: This is a type of medium-grain rice that is commonly used in sushi in the United States. It is affordable and widely available.

What Makes Sushi Rice Unique?

Sushi rice is not just any type of rice. It is specially prepared to have a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients in sushi. Here are some of the key characteristics of sushi rice:

Vinegar mixture: Sushi rice is typically mixed with a vinegar mixture that includes sugar and salt. This gives it a unique flavor and helps it hold together when rolled.
Sticky texture: Sushi rice should be sticky enough to hold together when rolled but not so sticky that it becomes gummy.
Cool temperature: Sushi rice should be served at room temperature or slightly cooler. This helps to bring out the flavor and texture of the rice.

Tips for Cooking Sushi Rice

Cooking sushi rice can be a bit tricky, but with the right technique, you can achieve perfect results every time. Here are some tips for cooking sushi rice:

Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
Use the right amount of water: The ratio of water to rice is crucial for achieving the right texture. Typically, you will need about 1 1/4 cups of water for every cup of rice.
Let the rice rest: After cooking, let the rice rest for at least 10 minutes before adding the vinegar mixture. This allows the rice to cool slightly and absorb the water.
Use a wooden spoon: When mixing the vinegar mixture into the rice, use a wooden spoon. This will prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.
Cover the rice: Cover the rice with a damp towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Choosing the Right Brand of Rice

The quality of the rice you use is just as important as the type of rice. Here are some tips for choosing the right brand of rice for your sushi recipe:

Look for brands that are known for producing high-quality rice.
Choose rice that is grown in Japan or other regions known for producing high-quality rice.
Check the packaging for information on the type of rice and the quality.
Consider trying different brands and varieties to find the one that works best for you.

Special Equipment for Making Sushi Rice

While making sushi rice doesn’t require any special equipment, there are a few tools that can make the process easier:

Rice cooker: An electric rice cooker offers a simple and foolproof way to cook rice.
Rice paddle: A rice paddle is a small, flat tool that is used to spread and mix the rice.
Sushi mat: A sushi mat is a flat sheet made of bamboo that is used to roll the sushi.

Mastering the Art of Making Sushi Rice

To make sushi rice, you only need a few ingredients that are easily available at your local grocery store. Here’s what you need:

Short or medium grain rice
Water
Rice vinegar
Sugar
Salt

The Electric Rice Cooker Method

If you don’t want to spend too much time cooking rice, you can use an electric rice cooker to make sushi rice. Here’s how:

Wash the rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then drain it.
Add the rice and water in a 1:1.25 parts ratio to the rice cooker and turn it on.
Once the rice is cooked, let it sit for 10 minutes to steam and become fluffy.
In a separate bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar and salt have dissolved.
Transfer the cooked rice to a large mixing bowl and pour the vinegar mixture over it. Gently fold and mix the rice to evenly distribute the mixture.
Spread the rice out on a sheet pan or large bowl to let it cool to room temperature before using it for sushi.

The Secret to Perfect Sushi Rice

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect sushi rice:

Use short or medium grain rice for a sticky texture that’s perfect for sushi.
Wash the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
Allow the rice to soak for at least 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Use a 1:1.25 parts ratio of rice to water to prevent the rice from becoming too dry or too wet.
Be gentle when mixing the rice with the vinegar mixture to prevent it from becoming too mushy.
Let the rice cool to room temperature before using it for sushi to prevent it from becoming too sticky or too dry.

Vegetarian Sushi Rice

If you’re a vegetarian, you can still enjoy sushi rice by using a vegetable-based vinegar instead of rice vinegar. You can also experiment with adding different vegetables or seasonings to the rice to give it a unique flavor.

Recommended Brands

While there are many brands of rice available, some of the best brands for making sushi rice include:

Kokuho Rose
Nishiki
Tamanishiki

Ingredients: What Goes Into Making Sushi Rice?

When it comes to making sushi rice, there are a few essential ingredients you’ll need to have on hand. These include:

Rice: The type of rice used in sushi is typically short-grain white rice. This type of rice is plump and sticky, which makes it perfect for rolling into sushi rolls. Some popular brands of sushi rice include Lundberg, Nishiki, and Kokuho Rose.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is typically used to sweeten the rice and give it a slightly sweet flavor.
Salt: Unseasoned sea salt is used to add flavor to the rice.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar is used to give the rice a slightly tangy flavor and to help it stick together.

Additional Ingredients for Flavor and Texture

While the basic ingredients are essential for making sushi rice, there are a few other ingredients you can add to give your rice a unique flavor and texture. These include:

Sweetener: Some sushi chefs prefer to use a sweetener other than sugar, such as honey or agave nectar, to give the rice a slightly different flavor.
Umami flavor: Some chefs add a small amount of soy sauce or miso paste to the rice to give it a savory, umami flavor.
Additives: Some sushi rice mixes include additives like MSG or other flavor enhancers. If you prefer to keep your rice free of additives, be sure to read the label carefully before making a purchase.

Shopping for Sushi Rice Ingredients

If you’re new to making sushi rice, you may be wondering where to find the ingredients you need. Here are a few tips:

Rice: Look for short-grain white rice labeled specifically for sushi. Some grocery stores may also carry mixed sushi rice that includes the vinegar and sugar you need.
Sugar: Any granulated sugar will work, but some sushi chefs prefer to use extra fine granulated sugar for a smoother texture.
Salt: Look for unseasoned sea salt, which is free of additives and has a natural taste.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar is available at most grocery stores and can be found in the Asian foods section.

Nutritional Information

If you’re watching your diet, you may be wondering about the nutritional content of sushi rice. Here’s a quick nutritional analysis based on a serving size of one cup of cooked sushi rice:

Calories: 242
Total fat: 0.3g
Saturated fat: 0.1g
Trans fat: 0g
Monounsaturated fat: 0.1g
Polyunsaturated fat: 0.1g
Dietary fiber: 1.4g
Sodium: 579 milligrams

Note that these values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use to make your sushi rice.

Get Creative: Ways to Use Sushi Rice

Sushi bowls are a great way to use sushi rice. Simply cook the rice according to the traditional method, then mix in some rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Once the mixture has cooled, add in some sliced avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger. Top it off with some sliced raw fish or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Onigiri

Onigiri is a traditional Japanese snack made from sushi rice. To make onigiri, simply mix the cooked sushi rice with some salt and let it cool. Then, wet your hands and form the rice into small triangular or oval shapes. Add a filling of your choice, such as pickled plum, tuna, or salmon, and wrap the rice around it.

Miso Soup

Sushi rice can also be used to make miso soup. Cook the sushi rice according to the traditional method, then combine it with miso paste and additional water. Add in some tofu, seaweed, and sliced green onions for a delicious and comforting soup.

Rice Pudding

Sushi rice can also be used to make a sweet rice pudding. Cook the sushi rice according to the traditional method, then mix in some sugar, milk, and cinnamon. Let the mixture simmer until the rice is cooked through and the mixture is thick and creamy. Serve warm or chilled.

Sushi Burrito

Sushi burritos are a fun and creative way to use sushi rice. Cook the sushi rice according to the traditional method, then spread it out on a large sheet of nori. Add your desired fillings, such as avocado, cucumber, crab, or shrimp. Roll the nori tightly into a burrito shape and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Sushi Salad

Sushi rice can also be used to make a delicious sushi salad. Cook the sushi rice according to the traditional method, then mix in some rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Add in some sliced cucumber, carrot, and avocado. Top it off with some sliced raw fish or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Sushi Pizza

Sushi pizza is a fun and unique way to use sushi rice. Cook the sushi rice according to the traditional method, then spread it out on a baking sheet. Bake the rice until it is crispy and golden brown. Top it off with some sliced raw fish, avocado, and spicy mayo.

Sushi Sandwiches

Sushi sandwiches are a great way to use sushi rice in a portable and easy-to-eat format. Cook the sushi rice according to the traditional method, then mix in some rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Spread the rice onto a slice of bread and add your desired fillings, such as sliced cucumber, avocado, and smoked salmon. Top it off with another slice of bread and enjoy!

Note: When using sushi rice in dishes other than traditional sushi, it’s important to note that the rice may need to be cooked differently or with additional ingredients to achieve the desired texture and flavor. Experiment with different methods and ingredients to find what works best for you.

Conclusion

So there you have it- the secret to making the perfect sushi rice is in the rice itself, and the water and vinegar you use.

Plus, don’t forget the salt and sugar. So don’t be afraid to experiment and find out what works best for you.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.