What Is Sushi Rice? (And Can You Use Normal Rice Instead?)

What Is Sushi Rice? (And Can You Use Normal Rice Instead?)
Aug, 24 , 25 Oishii Kit Admin

What Is Sushi Rice? (And Can You Use Normal Rice Instead?)

If you’ve ever looked at a recipe and thought, “Can I just use normal rice?” — you’re not alone.

Sushi rice is one of those things that seems mysterious when you first hear about it. But the truth is, it’s not a rare ingredient, and it’s not that different from other types of rice… if you know what you’re doing.

Let’s break it down.

🍚 So, what actually is sushi rice?

Sushi rice (also called shari, sumeshi or sushi-meshi) is short-grain or medium-grain white rice that’s been seasoned with a special vinegar mix after cooking.

What makes it sushi rice isn’t the rice itself — it’s how it’s prepared.

🍶 What goes in the seasoning?

A classic sushi vinegar mix includes:

  • Rice vinegar

  • Sugar

  • Salt

Once your rice is cooked and still warm, you gently fold in the mixture. This gives the rice its slightly sweet, tangy flavour and helps it hold together when rolled.

If you’ve ever had sushi that falls apart — it’s usually down to the wrong rice, or skipping this step.

🟠 Can I use regular rice instead?

Short answer: yes, but…

If you're in a pinch, you can use short-grain rice like pudding rice (from the supermarket) or even risotto rice like Arborio. Just rinse well, cook carefully, and season properly.

You’ll get something close enough to proper sushi rice for a fun night in.

But long-grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)?
That’s a no from us. It's too dry and won’t stick — your roll will fall apart faster than you can say "soy sauce."

🟢 Where to buy real sushi rice in the UK

You can find sushi rice:

  • In the world food aisle of most supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose)

  • At Asian supermarkets (better value, bigger bags)

  • Online at Japan Centre, Sous Chef, or Yutaka Shop

Look for labels like “Sushi Rice,” “Short Grain Rice,” or “Japanese-Style Rice.”

🧂 Bonus tip: pre-made sushi vinegar exists

Want to save a step? You can buy ready-mixed sushi seasoning in bottles — just pour it over your rice after cooking. Yutaka, Clearspring and Mizkan all make versions.

Or… make your own (see recipe below).

📝 Simple sushi vinegar recipe

For 2 cups of cooked rice:

  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 1.5 tbsp sugar

  • 1 tsp salt

Gently heat until the sugar dissolves (don’t boil), then fold into warm rice with a wooden spoon or rice paddle.

Let it cool to room temperature before rolling.

Final thoughts

The secret to great homemade sushi isn’t raw fish — it’s properly seasoned rice.

Whether you use authentic sushi rice or a decent substitute, the key is rinsing, seasoning, and treating it with care.

And remember: every Oishii Kit includes a rice paddle and full instructions to help you get it right the first time.

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