Unlocking the Possibilities: What To Make With Sushi Rice?

Sushi rice, also known as “shari” in Japanese, is an essential component of traditional Japanese cuisine. It is a short-grain variety of rice that is specifically prepared with vinegar, sugar, and salt to give it a sticky texture that pairs perfectly with raw fish and other ingredients. But what else can you do with sushi rice? If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons and experiment with this versatile ingredient, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore various dishes and recipes that go beyond the classic sushi roll and show you how to make delicious and unexpected creations with sushi rice. So let’s grab our aprons and get ready to dive into the world of sushi rice!

Sushi rice, also known as shari or sumeshi, is a special type of rice that has been traditionally used to make sushi. It is short-grain and sticky in texture, with a slightly sweet flavor. Sushi rice is a staple ingredient in Japanese cuisine and has gained popularity all over the world.

In this article, we will discuss different dishes that can be made with sushi rice besides traditional sushi rolls. Whether you have leftovers from your sushi night or just looking for new ways to use up your sushi rice, these recipes are sure to be a hit.

10 Tasty Dishes To Make With Sushi Rice

1) Sushi Rice Bowls: A popular and easy dish to make with sushi rice is a sushi donburi bowl. Simply top your cooked sushi rice with your desired ingredients such as raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, and toppings like pickled ginger or wasabi. This dish can be customized to your liking and makes for a satisfying meal.

2) Onigiri: Onigiri are triangular-shaped rice balls commonly found in Japanese bento boxes. These can be filled with tuna, salmon, pickled plum or any other filling of your choice. They are perfect for packed lunches and are easy to make with leftover sushi rice.

3) Sushi Salad: A refreshing twist on traditional sushi rolls, a sushi salad combines all the flavors of your favorite roll without the fuss of rolling them up. Simply mix together diced raw fish, veggies, seaweed strips and top it off with cooked sushi rice dressed in a soy sauce-based dressing.

4) Sushi Burrito: Take your love for burritos to the next level by making them with sushi rice instead of regular rice. Fill them up with your favorite protein like tempura shrimp or grilled chicken along with avocado, cucumber and any other toppings you desire. Roll it all up in a sheet of nori and enjoy!

5) Sushi Casserole: A fusion dish that combines the flavors of sushi with the comfort of a casserole. Cooked sushi rice is mixed with a deconstructed sushi roll filling such as crab, avocado, and cucumber. This is then topped with panko breadcrumbs and baked to perfection.

6) Sushi Rice Balls: Another delicious way to use up leftover sushi rice is by making crispy rice balls. Mix together cooked rice, eggs, and seasonings before shaping them into balls and frying them until crispy on the outside. Dip them in soy sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

7) Sushi Fried Rice: Give your regular fried rice a unique twist by using sushi rice instead. The sticky texture of sushi rice adds a different dimension to this classic dish. Add in your choice of veggies, protein, and seasonings for an easy yet flavorful meal.

8) Sushi Rice Croquettes: These deep-fried croquettes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, thanks to the addition of sushi rice. Mix cooked rice with diced veggies and panko breadcrumbs before frying them for a tasty snack or appetizer.

9) Sashimi Bowl: If you love sashimi but don’t know how to make sushi rolls, a sashimi bowl is the perfect solution. Top cooked sushi rice with sliced raw fish, avocado, cucumber, seaweed strips and any other toppings you desire for a satisfying meal.

10) Sushi Rice Pudding: This unique dessert will satisfy both your sweet tooth and your love for sushi. Mix together sweetened condensed milk, cooked sushi rice and top it off with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a delicious treat.

Tips For Cooking Perfect Sushi Rice

– The ideal ratio for cooking perfect sushi rice is 1:1 water to rice. This may vary depending on the type of rice you use, so always follow the instructions on the package.
– Use short-grain Japanese sushi rice for best results. Other types of rice, such as long-grain, will not result in the same sticky texture needed for sushi dishes.
– Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and ensure fluffy grains.
– Let the cooked rice sit for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork to allow it to cool slightly and properly absorb any remaining liquid.
– Season your cooked sushi rice with a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt. This is called “sushi-zu” and is essential for achieving the authentic flavor and stickiness of sushi rice.
– Use a wooden spoon or spatula when mixing or seasoning your sushi rice to avoid squishing or crushing the grains.
– For best results, use a good quality Japanese rice vinegar rather than plain white vinegar.
– Properly stored cooked sushi rice can last up to 3 days in the fridge, making it easy to meal prep for future dishes.

In conclusion, sushi rice is not just limited to making basic rolls – it is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes. From bowls

When it comes to sushi, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the delicious combination of raw fish and perfectly cooked rice. But what do you do when you have leftover sushi rice? Instead of letting it go to waste, there are plenty of tasty and creative dishes you can make with sushi rice. From appetizers and main dishes to desserts, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll explore some delicious ideas on what to make with sushi rice.

Sushi Rice – A Brief Overview

Before we dive into the different dishes you can make with sushi rice, let’s have a quick overview of what sushi rice actually is. Sushi rice, also known as “shari” in Japanese, is a medium-grain white rice that is cooked with vinegar and sugar. The vinegar and sugar give the rice its signature tangy flavor and stickiness, making it perfect for rolling into sushi or used as a base for other dishes.

1. Sushi Bowls

One easy way to use up leftover sushi rice is by making sushi bowls. These bowls are essentially deconstructed sushi rolls served in a bowl instead of being rolled up in nori (seaweed) sheets. Start by topping your sushi rice with your choice of protein such as tuna, salmon or shrimp. Add some sliced avocado, cucumber, edamame beans, and pickled ginger on top. You can also drizzle some Sriracha mayo or soy sauce for added flavor.

2. California Rolls

Another classic dish you can make with leftover sushi rice is California rolls. These popular rolls are filled with imitation crab meat, avocado, cucumber and rolled in nori sheets coated with sesame seeds. Instead of using fresh fish like traditional sushi rolls, these rolls work well with pre-cooked leftovers like chicken or canned tuna. They are perfect for a quick and easy lunch or snack.

3. Sushi Rice Croquettes

Crunchy and savory, sushi rice croquettes are a delicious way to use up leftover sushi rice. Simply mix the rice with chopped cooked vegetables or your choice of protein, such as chicken or shrimp, and form them into small patties. Coat the patties in panko breadcrumbs and fry until golden brown. Serve with a spicy mayo dipping sauce for a tasty appetizer or snack.

4. Sushi Rice Salad

This refreshing salad is perfect for warm summer days, using leftover sushi rice as the base instead of traditional salad greens. Add in some diced avocado, cucumber, shredded carrots, and crab meat for a nutritious and filling meal. You can also top it off with some spicy mayo or soy sauce dressing for an added kick of flavor.

5. Grilled Onigiri

Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a popular snack in Japan. These rice balls can be filled with various ingredients like canned tuna or dried seaweed flakes before being grilled to perfection. They make a great addition to any lunchbox or a tasty snack on the go.

6. Dessert Sushi

Yes, you read that right – dessert sushi! This fun twist on traditional sushi is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Simply roll out your leftover sushi rice on a flat surface and add toppings like sliced bananas, chocolate chips, and drizzled honey before rolling it up in plastic wrap tightly. Chill in the fridge for an hour before slicing into “sushi” rolls.

Sushi Rice Muffins

Another creative way to use leftover sushi rice is by turning them into savory muffins packed with flavor. Mix the rice with your choice of veggies and protein, such as corn, peas, and diced ham. Pour the mixture into a greased muffin tin and bake until golden brown. These make great on-the-go breakfast options or snacks.

Sushi Rice Casserole

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, and using leftover sushi rice in one is a delicious and unique idea. Mix together cooked rice, chicken or shrimp, veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms, and a creamy sauce before baking in the oven. Sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch.

From traditional sushi rolls to creative dessert ideas, there are plenty of ways to use up leftover sushi rice without getting bored. The next time you find yourself with some extra sushi rice, try out one of these tasty dishes to make the most out of it. With a little bit of imagination, you can turn this simple ingredient into delicious meals that your family and friends will love.

Q: What is sushi rice?
A: Sushi rice, also known as sumeshi, is a type of short-grain rice that is essential in making sushi. It is often seasoned with vinegar, sugar, and salt to give it a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.

Q: Can I use regular rice to make sushi?
A: No, regular rice such as long-grain or jasmine rice will not give you the desired texture and stickiness that is needed for making sushi. Sushi rice has a higher starch content which gives it its signature texture.

Q: How do I cook sushi rice?
A: The ratio for cooking sushi rice is usually one part rice to 1.25 parts water. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear, then let it soak for 30 minutes before cooking. Bring the water and rice to a boil, then let it simmer covered for about 15 minutes. Let it sit for an additional 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Q: What can I make with leftover sushi rice?
A: Leftover sushi rice can be used to make various dishes such as onigiri (rice balls), fried rice, or even mixed into soups or salads. It can also be used as a filling for nori rolls or hand rolls along with other ingredients such as vegetables or cooked fish.

Q: Can I freeze sushi rice?
A: Yes, you can freeze sushi rice by letting it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Thaw it in the fridge before using and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Q: How long can I keep leftover sushi rice?
A: Leftover sushi rice can be kept in the fridge for up to two days. Be sure to keep it covered and store it in an airtight container. After that, it is best to freeze it for future use.

In conclusion, sushi rice is a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a variety of delicious dishes. Its sticky and slightly sweet texture makes it perfect for sushi rolls, but it can also be incorporated into other cuisines for a unique fusion twist. By following the proper techniques for cooking and seasoning sushi rice, anyone can create restaurant-quality dishes at home.

Some of the key takeaways from this topic include:

– Sushi rice is the foundation of many Japanese dishes, including sushi rolls, onigiri, and chirashi bowls.
– The quality of the sushi rice can greatly impact the overall taste and texture of a dish.
– Proper cooking techniques, such as rinsing and soaking the rice before cooking, are crucial for achieving the desired sticky consistency.
– Seasoning the sushi rice with vinegar, sugar, and salt is essential in creating an authentic flavor profile.
– Sushi rice can also be incorporated into non-Japanese dishes for a unique fusion twist.
– Leftover sushi rice can be transformed into tasty snacks or meals by utilizing creative recipes.

In today’s multicultural society, understanding how to work with different ingredients and cuisines is becoming increasingly important. By learning how to work with sushi rice and incorporating it into your cooking repertoire, you can not only expand your culinary skills

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.