Instant Pot sushi rice cooked to perfection for homemade sushi

Instant Pot Sushi Rice

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Making sushi rice at home is easier than you might think, especially with an Instant Pot. This method gives you perfectly cooked sushi rice every time, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade sushi, rice bowls, or even as a side dish. The Instant Pot ensures that the rice cooks evenly and quickly, making it a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

How to Make Instant Pot Sushi Rice

Ingredients

  • 2 cups sushi rice
  • 2 ¼ cups water
  • ¼ cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons organic cane sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce by half if using another type)

Directions

  1. Rinse the rice. Place the sushi rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under running water for 1-2 minutes. Use your hand to push the rice around, ensuring it rinses well. Once the water runs clear, shake off any excess water and add the drained rice to the Instant Pot insert along with 2 ¼ cups of fresh water. Stir the mixture so that the rice is completely covered.

  2. Pressure cook. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealed position. Manually set the time for 5 minutes at high pressure. After the cooking time is up, do a natural release for 10 minutes. Then, perform a quick release to let any remaining steam escape before carefully removing the lid. Dispose of any water collected in the lid.

  3. Prepare the sushi vinegar. In a small microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat it gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds to help the sugar dissolve. Stir to combine the mixture.

  4. Mix the rice. Pour the warm vinegar mixture over the cooked rice. Using a rubber spatula or rice paddle, gently mix the rice using a "cutting method" to make sure the seasoning is distributed evenly.

  5. Let it cool. Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel, ensuring it touches the surface of the rice to prevent it from drying out. Let the rice sit at room temperature to cool. If not using it right away, transfer it to a tightly sealed container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Serve Instant Pot Sushi Rice

You can serve sushi rice in many ways. Use it as a base for sushi rolls or nigiri. You can also create rice bowls topped with your favorite protein and vegetables. Sushi rice pairs perfectly with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for a complete sushi experience.

How to Store Instant Pot Sushi Rice

Store any leftover sushi rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice and microwave it, covered, for about 30 seconds. This will help restore moisture.

Tips to Make Instant Pot Sushi Rice

  • Make sure to rinse the rice well to remove excess starch for the best texture.
  • Use high-quality sushi rice for the best flavor and stickiness.
  • If you prefer a sweeter rice, feel free to adjust the sugar level to your taste.

Variation

You can add other ingredients to your sushi rice, such as a dash of sesame oil for added flavor. Some people also like to mix in chopped seaweed or seasonings to give the rice an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular rice instead of sushi rice?
While you can use regular rice, it won’t have the same sticky texture and flavor as sushi rice. Sushi rice is specially formulated to hold together when making sushi.

2. Is it necessary to use rice vinegar?
Rice vinegar adds flavor and helps to season and preserve the rice. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar, but it may change the taste slightly.

3. Can I freeze sushi rice?
Yes, you can freeze sushi rice. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to label it and use it within 1-2 months.