How to Make Perfect Sushi At Home

Making sushi at home may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients, tools, and a little bit of practice, you can create delicious and gorgeous rolls that are sure to impress your guests.

Here are some steps to follow to make perfect sushi at home:

1. Gather your ingredients
You’ll need sushi rice, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, nori sheets, and your desired fillings (such as avocado, cucumber, tuna, salmon, shrimp, etc.). You’ll also need a bamboo rolling mat and a sharp knife.

2. Cook the rice
Rinse the rice several times, then add it to a pot with the appropriate amount of water (usually 1:1.25 rice to water ratio). Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the water is absorbed. Let the rice sit for 10 minutes, then add a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to the rice and mix gently.

3. Prep your fillings
Slice your fillings into thin strips or small pieces. Make sure they are dry to prevent your sushi from becoming soggy.

4. Prepare your workspace
Cover your bamboo mat with plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent the rice from sticking.

5. Assemble your sushi
Place a nori sheet shiny side down on the plastic wrap/parchment paper. Wet your hands to prevent the rice from sticking and spread a thin layer of rice on the nori, leaving a strip at the top empty. Place your fillings in a horizontal line on the rice. Lift the bottom edge of the bamboo mat and roll firmly, pressing the filling into the roll and using the mat to shape it. Once you get to the top, wet the empty strip of nori with water and use it to seal the roll.

6. Slice and serve
Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into pieces. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to prevent sticking. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

With some practice, you’ll be able to make perfect sushi at home that is as tasty and beautiful as what you would find at a sushi restaurant.