Best Sushi Rice Substitutes for Homemade Sushi and Japanese Cooking
The best substitute for sushi rice is Calrose Rice at a 1:1 ratio. It works best for sushi, rice bowls, onigiri. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Calrose Rice
1:1
Medium-grain California-grown rice with similar stickiness. The most commonly available substitute.
What are the other substitutes for sushi rice?
Arborio Rice
1:1
Italian short-grain rice normally used for risotto. Starchy and sticky when cooked, though slightly creamier.
Korean Short-Grain Rice
1:1
Very similar to Japanese short-grain rice with the same sticky texture. Essentially interchangeable.
Bomba Rice
1:1
Spanish short-grain rice used for paella. Absorbs liquid well and has a similar sticky quality.
What should you know before substituting sushi rice?
For proper sushi rice, the vinegar seasoning (sushi-zu) is essential: combine 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt per 2 cups of cooked rice. Fold in gently with a rice paddle while fanning to cool. Never use long-grain rice for sushi.
How do you substitute sushi rice in a recipe?
A short-grain Japanese rice (uruchimai) that becomes sticky and slightly sweet when cooked. Sushi rice is seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Its sticky texture is essential for sushi, onigiri, and Japanese rice bowls.
The best substitute for sushi rice depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Calrose Rice (1:1), which works well for sushi, rice bowls, onigiri.
If you need a different option, Arborio Rice (1:1) is another reliable choice. Italian short-grain rice normally used for risotto. Starchy and sticky when cooked, though slightly creamier.
When substituting sushi rice, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What rice can I use instead of sushi rice?
Calrose rice is the best substitute for sushi rice, offering similar stickiness and mild flavor. Korean short-grain rice is essentially interchangeable. Arborio rice works in a pinch but produces a slightly creamier texture.
Can I use regular white rice for sushi?
Regular long-grain white rice is not recommended for sushi because it doesn't have enough starch to stick together. If short-grain rice is unavailable, medium-grain rice (like Calrose) is the best alternative.
How do I season sushi rice?
Season 2 cups cooked rice with a mixture of 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt (heated until dissolved). Fold the seasoning in gently with a cutting motion while fanning the rice to cool it quickly.