Perfect Sushi Rice

This recipe makes enough to fill about 20 sushi rolls.

To cook the rice:
Combine rinsed sushi rice and water together in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Then cover saucepan and continue to boil for about 13 minutes, until all the water is absorbed. Turn off the heat and allow rice to rest in the covered saucepan for 30 minutes. Alternatively, add rinsed rice and water to rice cooker and start the rice setting, allowing the rice to rest for 30 minutes when the cooking cycle is complete.

To make the sushi vinegar:
Combine the sushi vinegar ingredients in a saucepan and heat over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, just until the salt and sugar dissolve and the mixture begins to boil. Remove from heat immediately and cool.

To finish preparing the sushi rice:
Spread the cooked rice in a large wide bowl and sprinkle with 3/4 cup of the sushi vinegar. Toss and stir to break up rice clumps and to be sure all the rice is evenly coated with the sushi vinegar. It will be sticky and have a shiny appearance. The rice is now ready to be used. Keep a bowl of water near your work station to dip your hands into as you are making your sushi rolls. This will help keep the rice from sticking to you. It’s also helpful to keep a damp cloth nearby.

Recipe adapted from Chef Rogelio.