Perfect Sushi Rice for Beginners | How to Make Sushi Rice at Home
Perfect sushi starts with perfect sushi rice. Soft, sticky, and lightly seasoned — this rice is the base of every delicious sushi roll. This simple guide will help you make sushi rice at home even if you’re a complete beginner.
Ingredients for Sushi Rice
- 1 cup sushi rice (short-grain)
- 1¼ cups water
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse until water runs clear.
Why: Removes excess starch and prevents mushy rice.

Step 2: Cook the Rice
Use the perfect ratio:
👉 1 cup rice : 1¼ cups water
Cook until soft and sticky.

Step 3: Make Sushi Vinegar
Mix:
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt
Warm slightly to dissolve sugar.

Step 4: Season the Rice
Move rice to a wide bowl.
Pour vinegar mixture.
Fold gently — do not mash.

Step 5: Cool the Rice
Fan the rice for 2–3 minutes.
Rice becomes shiny and perfect for rolling.
⭐ Beginner Tips
- Do NOT refrigerate sushi rice
- Wet hands before handling rice
- Use a sharp knife
- Only short-grain sushi rice works
👉 Next Step: Make Your Veggie Sushi!
Use this rice with my:
Veggie Sushi Recipe | Easy Vegetarian Sushi Rolls
Essential Tools for Making Sushi at Home
My recommended tools — one link (Amazon OneLink) works worldwide.
- Bamboo Sushi Rolling Mat (Makisu) View
- Sushi Rice (Short-Grain) View
- Compact Rice Cooker View
- Rice Vinegar / Sushi Vinegar View
- Nori Sheets (Seaweed) View
- Sharp Chef’s Knife View
- Bamboo Sushi Kit (Mat + Paddle + Chopsticks) View
- Avocado Slicer / Mandoline (Optional) View
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