Sushi Rice

Master the art of perfect sushi-making with this foolproof Sushi Rice recipe, a must-have for any Japanese cuisine enthusiast. This essential recipe combines tender, fluffy Japanese short-grain rice with a delicate blend of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to achieve that signature balance of subtle sweetness and tang. With straightforward techniques like rinsing to remove excess starch, precise steaming, and gently folding in a seasoned vinegar mixture, this recipe ensures perfectly shiny, flavorful rice every time. Ideal as the foundation for sushi rolls, nigiri, or vibrant poke bowls, this versatile sushi rice is sure to elevate your homemade Japanese dishes. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate staple for sushi night!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice
• 2.5 cups Water
• 1.5 tablespoons Rice vinegar
• 1.5 tablespoons Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt

Directions

Step 1

Place the 2 cups of rice in a large bowl and rinse it under cold water, swishing gently with your hands to remove excess starch. Repeat this process 3-4 times or until the water runs clear.

Step 2

Drain the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and allow it to sit for 10 minutes to dry slightly.

Step 3

Transfer the rice to a medium-sized heavy-bottomed pot or rice cooker and add 2.5 cups of water.

Step 4

If using a pot, bring the water and rice to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 18 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time.

Step 5

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat (keeping the lid on) and let it steam for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 6

While the rice is steaming, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 7

Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl or traditional wooden sushi rice bowl (hangiri). Using a wooden spatula or rice paddle, spread and gently fold the rice to help it cool down slightly.

Step 8

Gradually pour the seasoned vinegar mixture over the rice while continuing to fold it gently (do not mash or stir vigorously). Continue this process until the vinegar is evenly distributed and the rice achieves a shiny appearance.

Step 9

Cover the rice with a damp kitchen towel to keep it moist until ready to use. Serve as the base for sushi rolls, nigiri, or poke bowls.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1047.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	595.8

Total Fat 0.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 0.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2378.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 133.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 1.2g	0%
Total Sugars 19.3g
Protein 9.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 48.2mg	0%
Iron 0.8mg	0%
Potassium 140.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 1.4%

Protein: 6.6%

Carbs: 92.0%