Chef John's Easy Sushi Rice

3.5
(13)

Sushi rice can be used for so many things. Sushi, of course, but also as a side dish for grilled meat or as a wrap using seaweed. Plus, it's perfectly fine at room temperature, so it's great for picnics.

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5
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Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Additional Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
45 mins
Servings:
6
Yield:
6 servings
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

  • 2 cups uncooked sushi rice

  • 2 ¼ cups water

  • ¼ cup seasoned rice vinegar, or more to taste

Directions

  1. Place rice in a strainer and rinse under cold water until run-off turns from cloudy to completely clear, about 2 minutes. Place strainer over a bowl and let drain until almost dry, about 1 hour. Transfer to a heavy bottom saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

  2. Pour water over rice. Place pot over medium-high heat and bring to a simmer without stirring. As soon as little bubbles appear on the surface and rice starts to simmer, reduce heat to low and cover pan. Cook for exactly 10 minutes. Remove from heat; lift lid for 1 second and cover again immediately. Let sit another 10 minutes.

  3. Transfer rice to a rimmed sheet pan and spread out with a fork, fanning (with a magazine or similar object) to start to cool it. Sprinkle about half the rice vinegar on the rice while gently tossing it. Continue fanning to bring rice to just over room temperature. Sprinkle the rest of rice vinegar over the rice and toss with fork to blend evenly. A small amount of rice should be easily formed into an oblong sushi base, but easily crumble when cut with a fork.

Cook's Notes:

I buy my rice vinegar already seasoned, but to make your own seasoned rice vinegar, combine: 1 cup rice vinegar, or cider vinegar; 1/2 cup white sugar; 4 teaspoons kosher salt

You can also finish the rice in a large bowl using a bamboo rice paddle to stir and toss. Rice may be a bit stickier than rice tossed on a sheet pan.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

247 Calories
0g Fat
55g Carbs
4g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Calories 247
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0g 0%
Saturated Fat 0g 1%
Sodium 214mg 9%
Total Carbohydrate 55g 20%
Dietary Fiber 2g 7%
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 4g 9%
Calcium 5mg 0%
Iron 3mg 16%
Potassium 52mg 1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.