If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make Homemade Sushi Rice, the first thing you need to know is that it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. As long as you have the right ingredients and equipment, you can easily create delicious sushi rice at home without spending a fortune.When I made sushi rice for the first time, it looked perfect, but when I tried to eat it, the rice fell apart. It happened to me, and I know it happens to many people. That’s why I created this simple sushi rice recipe, which uses only four ingredients you can find at your local grocery store. It makes savory, sticky, perfect sushi rice.
Ingredients for Sushi Rice
Believe it or not, you can make restaurant quality sticky rice with just four simple ingredients at home! Here’s all you need:
Uncooked Rice – Look for a bag that says “sushi rice” on the front. You can find it at most grocery stores either in the Asian aisle or with the pasta and rice. Japanese Rice Vinegar – Rice vinegar adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the fish. If you’re in a pinch, substituting apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar is a tasty alternative.Sugar – Just basic granulated sugar.Salt – Again, just basic iodized salt.
Best Rice for Sushi Rice
The best rice to make sushi rice is a rice called “sushi rice.” It is a short-grain white Japanese rice or medium-grain California rice. It should say “sushi rice” right on the bag. If you can’t find either of those, Calrose rice works well in a pinch. Be aware that not all rice is created equal. Do not use basmati rice or jasmine rice. Neither of these rices are sticky enough for sushi. I can usually find it at the grocery store, but if you can’t find it there, check your local Asian market.
Steps for Making Sushi Rice
Rinse your rice in a colander until the water runs clear. Then, let the rice drain in the colander for one hour. This step is crucial to the texture of the rice, so don’t skip it!Add rice and water to a rice cooker or a large pot. Cover with a lid and cook. See recipe card below for rice cooker and stovetop cooking times.While the rice is cooking, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture until the sugar dissolves, but DO NOT let it boil. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.When the rice is finished, spread the cooked rice out onto a baking sheet using a wooden spoon or rice paddle. Pour the vinegar mixture over the rice and mix until all the rice is coated.Let the rice cool on the baking sheet, flipping every once in a while.When the rice is completely cooled, it is ready to be made into all kinds of sushi!
Reader Reviews
“This came out great! Easiest instructions to follow! It was so fun making our own sushi at home!” – Suzy “I was very skeptical of the rice cooking technique, but had never had success with any other method and have nothing but time here in quarantine. It is the best rice I have ever made ever! The texture and moisture levels are perfect. I used bottled sweetened sushi vinegar for the win.” – Pat
Frequently Asked Questions About Sushi Rice
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Recipe Ideas and Inspiration
Now that you have a solid foundation, what will you make? The possibilities are endless! Check out some of our favorite sushi rice recipes for ideas and inspiration!
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