Sushi has become a global phenomenon in recent decades, but the star of the show—sushi rice—is still shrouded in mystery for many home cooks. What is sushi rice? Where does it come from? And most importantly, what are the best sushi rice substitutes? Let’s explore these questions and more as we investigate the many options available to you when making sushi at home.
Jump to:
What is Sushi Rice?
Sushi rice is a unique type of Japanese short-grain white rice that has been polished to remove the outer bran layer. It has an opaque color and a mild flavor, making it a perfect complement to the other ingredients in sushi rolls. In addition to being used in nigiri, maki, and other types of sushi, sushi rice can also be used for side dishes served with cooked fish or vegetables.
The Origin Of Sushi Rice
Sushi originated in Japan as a way to preserve fish by fermenting it with salt and rice vinegar. Over time, chefs began adding other ingredients such as vegetables, seaweed, and even fruit to the rolls. In the 19th century, vinegared rice replaced fermented fish as the main ingredient in sushi. This allowed for more creative combinations and flavors.
Sushi Rice Preparation
Making sushi rice requires precision and skill because each grain must be cooked perfectly without becoming too dry or mushy.
- The first step is to rinse the grains until they are clear before cooking them in a pot with some water.
- Once cooked, they are mixed with vinegar seasoning while still hot so that all of the grains are evenly coated with flavor.
- The seasoned mixture is then shaped into small balls or mounds called nigiri or inside-out rolls called maki respectively before being served.
Short-Grain Vs Long-Grain
We will explore the differences between short-grain and long-grain rice, from texture and starch levels to cooking times and uses. Let’s dive in!
- Texture: Short-grain rice is rounder and shorter than long-grain rice. The grains are more sticky and tend to clump when cooked. Long-grain rice has a more slender shape with a firmer texture than short-grain. The grains stick together less when cooked, making it fluffier than short grains.
- Starch Levels: Short grain has higher levels of starch than long grain due to its higher amylose content, making it stickier when cooked. Long grain has lower levels of starch, making it drier and fluffier when cooked.
- Cooking Times: Short grain takes slightly longer to cook than long grain because it needs more time for the water to penetrate the grains. It typically takes 25 minutes or so while long grain only takes about 20 minutes.
- Uses: Short grain is best used for dishes that require a creamy consistency such as risotto or paella, while long grain works better for dishes that need a fluffier texture such as pilaf or fried rice dishes like biryani or jambalaya.
Rice is so versatile that it can be used to make everything from sushi to risotto. But what if you want to make sushi but don’t have access to sushi rice? Here are nine best substitutes for sushi rice that you never knew existed!
1. Sticky Rice
- Also known as glutinous rice, sticky rice is a type of short-grain rice that has been milled to remove the bran layer.
- It has a sweet flavor and it’s very sticky when cooked, making it an ideal substitute for sushi rice.
- Sticky rice has a high starch content which helps it stick together when cooked and makes it perfect for making sushi rolls.
- To cook sticky rice for sushi, combine 1 cup of uncooked sticky rice with 1 ½ cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Allow the cooked sticky rice to cool before using it in your favorite recipes!
2. Pudding Rice
- If you’re looking for a great substitute for sushi rice that doesn’t require any extra ingredients, why not try pudding rice (also known as short-grain white rice)?
- Pudding rice is starchier than traditional sushi rice, so it absorbs liquid quickly and becomes soft and gooey once cooked.
- It also has a mild flavor which pairs perfectly with savory dishes like sushi.
- To cook pudding rice, use two parts water or stock to one part rice and bring to a boil before reducing heat and simmering for 25 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
3. Brown Rice
- For those seeking an alternative to sushi that is closest in texture and flavor to traditional Japanese-style sushi, brown rice might be your best bet.
- Brown rice still contains its bran layer—the husk of the grain—which means it has a nuttier flavor profile than white or pudding rice and a chewier texture once cooked.
- To cook brown rice for making sushi use two parts water or stock to one part brown rice, and bring to a boil before reducing heat and simmering for 25 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
- For added flavor, you can also consider cooking your brown rice in dashi stock instead of plain water or stock.
4. Cauliflower Rice
- Looking for something light and keto friendly instead of sushi rice? Then cauliflower might be your best bet!
- Cauliflower is incredibly versatile; it can be used as a substitute in almost anything from pizza crusts to burger patties!
- It also makes an excellent base for vegan-friendly sushi rolls when cooked properly; simply chop your head of cauliflower into small pieces then pulse in a food processor until coarsely ground before steaming or sautéing for about 5 minutes until tender yet still firm enough to hold its shape when rolled into your favorite vegan roll recipe!
- For added flavor add some soy sauce or tamari while cooking.
5. Arborio Rice
- Arborio also known as risotto rice, is an Italian short-grain variety of white rice with a unique texture.
- It has higher levels of amylopectin than other varieties of white rice, giving it its characteristic chewy texture when cooked.
- To cook arborio rice for sushi, combine 1 cup of uncooked arborio with 1 ½ cups of cold water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed into the grains.
6. Black Rice
- Black rice commonly referred to as forbidden rice is an ancient variety of long-grain purple-colored heirloom grain originating from China.
- Black rice has an earthy flavor and chewy texture similar to wild or brown rice, but with more fiber and fewer calories than other varieties.
- To cook black rice as an alternative to sushi, rinse 1 cup of black rice under cold running water until the water runs clear then place it in a pot with 2 cups of cold water over high heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed into the grains. Allow the cooked black rice to steam for additional 5 mins before with the heat turned off.
7. Couscous
- Couscous may not seem like an obvious choice as a substitute for sushi, but this North African semolina pasta actually makes great “rice” balls when mixed with egg whites and fried lightly on each side!
- To prepare couscous for use as a substitute for sushi, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water plus one tablespoon of olive oil or butter (optional) to a boil over medium-high heat in a large saucepan or Dutch oven.
- Add 2 cups couscous stirring gently until combined then cover pan tightly with lid and remove from heat allowing couscous to steam undisturbed for 8–10 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed into grains Fluff couscous gently with a fork before serving!
8. Quinoa
- Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that is packed with protein and fiber making it an excellent substitute for sushi.
- To prepare quinoa for use in sushi, rinse 1 cup of uncooked quinoa under cold running water until the water runs clear then bring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water to a boil.
- Add quinoa stirring gently until combined then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 15 minutes or until all liquid is completely absorbed into the grains.
- Allow quinoa to steam, covered, an additional 5–10 minutes before fluffing with a fork before using it as a substitute in your favorite sushi recipes!
- For added flavor consider adding some soy sauce or toasted sesame oil while cooking. This will not only enhance the flavor of your final dish but also add a lovely nutty aroma and delightful color to your sushi rolls!
9. Bomba Rice
- Bomba rice is an extra-long grain variety of Spanish white rice.
- It has a higher absorption rate than other varieties of white rice, meaning it requires less liquid and more time to cook.
- To prepare bomba rice for use in sushi, bring 3 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat then add 1 cup of uncooked bomba rice.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed into the grains. Allow bomba rice to steam for an additional 3–5 minutes with the heat turned off before using it in your favorite sushi recipes.
- This variety of white rice will help create a firmer texture and make your sushi rolls more resilient, as well as provide a unique flavor to your finished dish.
People Also Ask [FAQs]
What Type Of Rice Is Sushi Rice?
Sushi rice is a short-grain, sticky variety of Japanese rice that is typically seasoned with a sweetened vinegar called sushi-su.
Is Sushi Rice Sticky Rice?
Yes, sushi rice is a type of sticky rice, as it has a high level of starch content which makes it very easy to form into shape and hold together.
Is Sushi Rice Gluten Free?
Yes, sushi rice is typically gluten-free, as it is made from white or brown rice and does not contain any wheat or other common gluten-containing grains.
Wrap Up: Sushi Rice Substitutes
- Rice is an essential component of many dishes around the world but knowing which type of rice to use can be tricky!
- This guide should give you a better understanding of how short-grain versus long-grain rice differ in terms of texture, starch levels, cooking times, and uses – so now you can make the right choice for your dish!
- Short-grain rice is best for sushi, while long-grain can be used as a substitute in certain cases. However, it has different textures and cooking times, so it’s important to keep these factors in mind when making your recipe.
- There are several alternatives to sushi rice that can help you enjoy the same flavors and textures as your favorite sushi dishes.
- Whether you choose to use arborio, black, couscous, quinoa, or bomba rice, each option has its own unique flavor and texture profile so you are sure to find one that suits your taste!
- Once you've decided on the perfect substitute for sushi rice, be sure to follow the cooking instructions closely and taste test before using it in your dish.
- With a little experimentation, you'll soon find the best alternative for your homemade sushi creations!
We hope this article inspires you to create some delicious new dishes utilizing these unique ingredients next time you find yourself wanting some delicious homemade rolls without access to traditional Japanese “sushi” style rice!
🍽️ Recipe
The Art of Making The Perfect Cauliflower Sushi Rice
Cauliflower rice is an innovative way to enjoy sushi without all the carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons tamari
- 4 teaspoons white wine vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- To make your own ropeable sushi-grade veg base, just pop your florets into a food processor until it looks like grainy couscous - don't over-process as you don't want a puree!
- To cook it, sauté the cauliflower in oil until golden around the edges – this will help to give it texture – then add the tamari and white wine vinegar stirring for about two minutes until the liquid has evaporated.
- Season with a sprinkle of sugar and salt.
- Now you can dive into your daydreams about your soon-to-be-created take on sushi.
Notes
- Line the inside of your mold with cling film to help shape your perfectly shaped rolls! Then fill up that bad boy with your cauliflower rice mix before chilling it in the fridge, flipping it out, and topping up with any delicious fixings to finish off.
Nutrition
Calories: 186kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Leave a Comment