Perfect Sushi Rice — Foundation for Japanese Meals
Many Japanese recipes begin with a bowl of perfectly cooked sushi rice, forming the base for a nutritionally balanced, harmonious, and visually appealing meal. This approach to dining has increasingly inspired me, blending tradition with mindful eating.
🕒 Prep Time: 40 min (including soaking and resting)
🍳 Cook Time: 17 min
🍽️ Servings: 4-5
🍴 Calories: 1376 cal (total)
🥄 Ingredients
- 2 cups sushi rice (400 g; short, round grains)
- 2 cups water (500 ml)
- 1 tsp salt
👩🍳 Instructions
- Wash the Rice:
Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly under cold water multiple times until the water runs clear and no longer cloudy. This removes excess starch and ensures a clean, fluffy texture. - Soak:
Cover the rice with cold water and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. The grains will become opaque white from translucent as they absorb water. Drain well. - Cook:
In a pot, combine water and salt and bring to a boil. Add the drained rice and bring the water back to a boil. - Seal and Bake:
Tightly seal the pot with aluminum foil (use a towel to press the foil edges without burning your hands). If the pot has a lid, place it on top as well. Transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 17 minutes. - Steam:
Remove the pot from the oven, carefully lift the lid, and place a clean towel over the foil. Replace the lid and allow the rice to steam for an additional 15 minutes without uncovering. - Fluff the Rice:
Lift the lid, and gently fluff the rice with a wide spatula using folding motions. Cover again and let it sit for another 5–10 minutes. - Rest and Serve:
Transfer the rice to a wide bowl and cover with a clean towel until ready to use. Sushi rice is best served fresh and can be enjoyed plain or sprinkled with Japanese seasonings such as Shichimi Togarashi or Furikake.
💡 Tips
- The salt amount is mild to complement soy sauce-based dishes but can be adjusted to taste.
- Leftover rice can be portioned warm into airtight containers and refrigerated up to 2–3 days.
- Cold rice is perfect for making fried rice dishes like Japanese-style fried rice or edamame fried rice.
🎉 Perfect For
- Preparing sushi rolls and Japanese dishes
- Serving as a base for balanced, wholesome meals
- Meal prepping for Japanese-style lunches or dinners
📝 Final Thoughts
Mastering sushi rice cooking is essential for authentic Japanese cuisine. This oven-baking method guarantees perfectly cooked, fluffy rice with a delicate texture, making every meal an enjoyable experience rooted in tradition and taste.