What rice should be used to make sushi? The answer is sushi rice, a kind of short-grained rice specially used to make sushi. This kind of rice is crystal clear and full, with distinct grains after cooking, sticky and not too soft. Its unique flavor is due to its high starch content, which keeps its shape and texture after being absorbed into vinegar solution.
When choosing sushi rice, look for certified varieties, such as Yueguang rice or golden rice produced in Japan. These varieties are famous for their excellent quality, which can show ideal viscosity, elasticity and luster after cooking.
The cooking process of sushi rice is very important, because it determines the final taste of sushi. Rinse the rice thoroughly and remove the starch to prevent it from being too sticky after cooking. Next, add water according to the ratio of 1: 1.2 and soak the rice for at least 30 minutes. This helps rice to absorb water and become fuller and more elastic.
Cook rice in an electric cooker or a common pot. Electric cookers are convenient and quick, while ordinary cookers need to control the temperature manually, but experienced chefs may prefer this way for better control. Immediately after cooking, transfer the rice to a large bowl and gently loosen the rice with a spoon to prevent caking.
Next, season the rice, which will give sushi a unique sour taste. Sushi vinegar is added to rice, which is made by mixing rice vinegar, sugar and salt. The ratio of vinegar is 1/4 to 1/3 cups of sushi vinegar for every 2 cups of rice. Gently stir the rice with a rice spoon to evenly distribute the vinegar. At this point, the rice should be sticky but loose and easy to knead with your fingers.
Let the sushi rice cool to room temperature before making sushi. This will help to stabilize its texture and make it easier to handle. Cold sushi rice is not easy to spread, and the stuffing and ingredients are better bonded, thus creating a perfect sushi roll or sushi.
If you master the mystery of sushi rice, you can make amazing sushi and make your taste buds jump with joy. So, the next time you prepare sushi, please be sure to use authentic sushi rice. Follow these steps and enjoy a delicious sushi trip!