Sushi night at home sounds great until we realize we’re out of sushi rice. It’s happened to us more than once, and trust me, it’s a moment. The good news? There are quick swaps that work just as well.
We’ve tried them all—some were hits, some… not so much. Our top picks hold together well and taste great without missing a beat. They can handle rolls, bowls, or whatever else you have planned.
Skip the grocery run. We’ve got solutions that save time and effort while still getting the job done.
5 Quick Substitutes for Sushi Rice
Here are our top five favorite substitutes for sushi rice:
1 – Short-Grain White Rice
First, if sushi rice is missing, short-grain white rice works well. It’s sticky enough to hold rolls together and has a similar texture when cooked.
Replace it 1:1 in recipes for a hassle-free swap. The grains are slightly less plump, but it absorbs flavors just as nicely.
We’ve tested it in rolls and bowls, and it holds up under pressure. It lacks the same glossy finish, but the taste comes pretty close.
2 – Arborio Rice
The texture of Arborio rice makes it a solid option for replacing sushi rice. Its starchy quality helps rolls stick together without falling apart.
Use a 1:1 swap for simplicity. While it’s a bit creamier than sushi rice, the flavor works well in most recipes.
We’ve tried it in sushi bowls and onigiri, and it handles toppings like fish and veggies beautifully. For more options, check out this guide to finding great Arborio rice substitutes.
3 – Calrose Rice
When sushi rice is missing, Calrose rice can fill in nicely. It has a soft and sticky texture that mimics sushi rice well.
Use a 1:1 ratio for an easy replacement. Calrose grains are slightly longer, but they hold together perfectly for rolls and bowls.
We’ve tested it with rolls, and it shapes up without breaking apart. It also absorbs seasoning well, making it a practical choice for sushi dishes.
4 – Sticky Black Rice
If sushi rice isn’t around, sticky black rice can be a cool alternative. Its sticky texture works well for holding rolls or shaping rice balls.
Use it 1:1, keeping things simple. The dark color might stand out, but it adds a nutty flavor that’s interesting.
We’ve used it with sashimi and veggies, and it pairs nicely with different toppings. The texture stays firm yet chewy, making it a solid choice for sushi recipes.
5 – Brown Rice
Last on the list, but still a worthy option when sushi rice is missing. Despite having a slightly different texture, brown rice holds up well in rolls and bowls.
Use it 1:1 for an easy replacement. The grains are larger than sushi rice, but they work well in recipes without altering the taste.
We’ve tried it with rolls and poke bowls, and it’s become our quick go-to choice. The nutty flavor adds something new to traditional sushi dishes.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.