Print

How to Make Sushi Rice Recipe

4.5 from 55 reviews

Learn how to make perfect sushi rice from scratch with this detailed recipe. The process includes rinsing the rice, simmering it to tender perfection, and seasoning it with a delicate mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to give it the classic slightly sweet and tangy flavor essential for sushi.

Ingredients

Scale

Sushi Rice

  • 2 cups sushi rice
  • 2 ½ cups water

Vinegar Seasoning

  • ¼ cup rice vinegar
  • 12 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Rinse Rice: Place the sushi rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under cold running water for 2-3 minutes until the water runs clear. This removes excess surface starch from the rice grains.
  2. Boil Rice: Combine the rinsed rice and 2 ½ cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer gently for 20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  3. Prepare Vinegar Mixture: While the rice is cooking, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk together and heat until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. Season Rice: When the rice has finished cooking, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the warm vinegar mixture evenly over the rice. Using a rice paddle or silicone spatula, gently fold the rice to coat it thoroughly with the vinegar mixture, taking care not to mash the grains.
  5. Cool Rice: Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to keep the rice moist and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, it is ready to be used for sushi rolls or served in a sushi bowl.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid to cook the rice evenly.
  • The vinegar mixture can be adjusted to taste — more sugar for sweetness or salt for seasoning.
  • Do not stir the rice too vigorously after seasoning to keep the grains intact and fluffy.
  • Covering the rice with a damp towel while cooling prevents it from drying out.

Keywords: sushi rice, sushi rice recipe, how to make sushi rice, Japanese rice, sushi preparation