How to Make Sushi Rice with Regular Rice: A Simple Guide

Have you ever wondered how to make sushi rice using regular rice? While traditional sushi rice is usually made from short-grain rice, this guide will help you prepare sushi rice using regular rice. Regular rice, whether it's long-grain or medium-grain, can be transformed into a suitable base for sushi with some adjustments in cooking and seasoning.

Ingredients

2 cups regular rice (long-grain or medium-grain) 2 1/4 cups water (adjust according to the type of rice) 1/4 cup rice vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt

Steps to Prepare Sushi Rice with Regular Rice

1. Rinse the Rice

Before cooking, it's necessary to rinse the rice to remove excess starch, which can make the rice too sticky. Here's how to do it:

Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve or a bowl. Rinse the rice under cold water. Swirl the rice with your hands until the water runs clear. This step helps to reduce the stickiness of the rice.

2. Cook the Rice

Cooking the rice properly is crucial to achieving the desired texture. Here is how to do it:

In a rice cooker or a pot, combine the rinsed rice and the appropriate amount of water (2 1/4 cups for regular rice). In a pot, bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Allow the rice to sit, still covered, for an additional 10 minutes.

3. Prepare the Sushi Vinegar

Create the sushi vinegar mixture that will add the distinct flavor and stickiness to your rice:

In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture gently over low heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Avoid boiling the mixture.

4. Mix the Rice and Vinegar

After the rice has cooled a bit, mix it with the sushi vinegar to create the perfect texture:

Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl or a wooden sushi tub (hangiri). While the rice is still warm, gently fold in the sushi vinegar mixture. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix, taking care not to mash the rice. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature. You can fan the rice to help it cool down and achieve a glossy finish.

Tips and Serving Suggestions

While regular rice won't achieve the same level of stickiness as short-grain rice, it will still hold together well when mixed with the vinegar.

Stickiness: Regular rice won't be as sticky, but it will still work for making sushi rolls, nigiri, and other sushi dishes. Serving: Use this homemade sushi rice for all your sushi recipes.

Another Purpose? Introducing a Powdered Seasoning for Sushi Rice

For those in Japan, or anyone traveling there, a convenient option is available. Many supermarkets or even drugstores sell a bag containing a white powder that transforms regular rice into sushi rice. This powder contains sugar, salt, and a powdered form of vinegar.

This bag can make sushi rice from 750 to 1200 grams of dry rice or twice that weight when cooked. Simply adjust the amount according to your needs.

A Cultural Sensation

This powdered seasoning gained popularity after appearing in an anime. The character was seen holding pizza-flavored potato chips, leading several Japanese fans to try the dish and find it unexpectedly delicious. I was one of those who found it scrumptious!

Whichever method you choose, enjoy making your own sushi rice with regular rice or using the powdered seasoning. Happy cooking!