Easy Homemade Sushi Rice

Perfect sushi starts with perfectly seasoned rice. This simple homemade sushi rice recipe creates soft, fluffy rice with the ideal balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you are making sushi rolls, salmon bowls, hand rolls, or serving it alongside fresh seafood, this recipe gives you restaurant-style sushi rice at home with minimal effort.

Easy Homemade Sushi Rice
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
20 min
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. 1

    Wash the Rice: Place the sushi rice into a bowl and rinse thoroughly with cold water until the water becomes mostly clear. Drain well. This step removes excess starch and helps create the perfect sticky sushi rice texture.

  2. 2

    Cook the Rice: Choose your preferred cooking method. Stove Top: Add the washed rice and 2 cups of water into a pot. Cover with a lid and cook on low to medium heat until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Instant Pot: Add the rice and water to the Instant Pot. Cook on low pressure for 10 minutes. Once cooked, cancel heat and allow natural release. Pressure Cooker: Cook the rice with 2 cups of water for 1 whistle. Once the pressure has completely released naturally, open the cooker.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Sushi Seasoning: While the rice is cooking, prepare the seasoning mixture. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, mirin, and salt. Place over low heat and stir gently until the sugar has completely dissolved. Do not overboil.

  4. 4

    Season the Rice: Transfer the cooked sushi rice into a large bowl. Pour the warm vinegar mixture over the rice and gently fold through until evenly combined. Be careful not to mash the rice. Allow the rice to cool slightly before using.

Tips, Variations and Storage

Tips: Use sushi rice rather than regular long-grain rice for the correct sticky texture. Rice wine vinegar gives a more traditional flavour, while apple cider vinegar works beautifully as an easy substitute. Allow the rice to cool slightly before rolling sushi to prevent the nori from becoming soggy. Wet your hands lightly when handling sushi rice to stop sticking. Serving Ideas: Serve this sushi rice with fresh salmon or tuna, avocado and cucumber rolls, teriyaki chicken, prawn tempura, Japanese-style rice bowls, or homemade hand rolls. Celebrations Place Tip: Homemade sushi nights are one of the easiest ways to create an elevated entertaining experience at home. Prepare the sushi rice ahead of time and let guests create their own sushi rolls or rice bowls for a relaxed and interactive dinner gathering.

Nutrition Information

Calories
290
Protein
5g
Carbs
64g
0

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular white rice?

No, you need short-grain sushi rice for the right stickiness.

Can I substitute the mirin?

Yes, if you don't have mirin, you can use a small splash of white wine or water mixed with a pinch of extra sugar.

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