Sushi rice is a short-grain rice variety typically used to make sushi. It has a sticky texture that allows it to hold together easily.
The microwave offers a convenient preparation for quick and easy cooking of sushi rice, perfect for daily life.
In this article, we’ll cover the microwave sushi rice recipe. It includes the microwave sushi rice recipe ingredients and essential tools needed for making the dish. You’ll also find step-by-step cooking instructions along with tips for perfect results. We will answer common FAQs and explore different variations of the recipe.

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Recipe Overview
Prep time | Cook time | Total time | Serving | Calories | Microwave Power Settings |
5 minutes | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 2 | 240 | 800W |
Ingredients
This section will outline the ingredients required to cook sushi rice in the microwave. You will need just a few ingredients for this simple and quick microwave recipe.
Let’s take a look:
- 1 cup sushi rice
- 1 ¼ cups water
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
Now that we have the ingredients, let’s explore the essential tools needed for a smooth and efficient microwave cooking experience.
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Tools for Cooking Sushi Rice in Microwave
Microwave cooking can be dangerous if suitable tools are not being used. It is important to use safe kitchen tools to avoid any accidents.
A list of safe microwave tools needed for cooking sushi rice is enlisted following:
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Microwave-safe lid or plate to cover
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Towel or oven mitts for handling hot containers
With all the ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to start cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients and prepared the right tools, you’re ready to begin cooking.
Follow these simple steps to cook the perfectly sticky sushi rice in the microwave.
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Place the rinsed rice into a microwave-safe bowl and add the water.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
- Microwave the rice on high for 10 minutes.
- Let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes to finish cooking.
- In a separate bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
- Gently fold the vinegar mixture into the cooked rice.
- Let the rice cool to room temperature before using it for sushi.
A perfectly cooked sushi rice will have a sticky yet firm texture in about 10 minutes.
You can use this sushi rice to prepare various dishes, such as sushi rolls, rice bowls, or even as a side dish with your favorite protein.
After exploring the detailed step-by-step cooking method, let’s dive into some essential tips for safe microwave cooking.
5 Tips to Cook Perfect Sushi Rice in Microwave
Now that you know how to make sushi rice in the microwave, here are some pro tips to help you avoid kitchen mishaps and achieve the best results with your recipe:
- Adjust for Wattage: Microwave power varies, so adjust the cooking time based on your microwave’s wattage.
- Use a Lid: Always cover the bowl to keep moisture in, ensuring the rice cooks evenly.
- Let the Rice Rest: After microwaving, let the rice sit to absorb any remaining moisture.
- Stir Gently: Be gentle when mixing the rice with vinegar to avoid breaking the grains.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking sushi rice can make it too dry, so check it closely near the end of the cooking time.
With safety tips covered, let’s now look at some different ways to cook sushi rice in the microwave.
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5 Quick & Easy Sushi Rice Recipes in Microwave
A variety of microwave sushi rice recipes adds versatility to your cooking, allowing you to try different flavors and textures.
These recipes are great for anyone looking to mix things up in the kitchen.
In this section, we will explore five fast and easy cooking recipes to cook sushi rice in the microwave.
1. Sweet Sushi Rice
This variation adds a subtle sweetness to your sushi rice. By incorporating a little extra sugar and a dash of honey into your rice vinegar mixture, you create a delightful, sweetened base perfect for pairing with fruits or sushi rolls. It’s ideal for dessert sushi or sweet rice bowls.
2. Spicy Sushi Rice
For a kick of heat, this spicy sushi rice combines sriracha or chili paste with the vinegar mix. It creates a bold, flavorful base that complements spicy tuna or other heat-infused sushi ingredients. Adjust the spice level to suit your preference for a personal touch.
3. Coconut Sushi Rice
Coconut milk makes this sushi rice creamy and aromatic. This variation is great for those who enjoy a rich, tropical flavor. The coconut infusion works well with a variety of sushi toppings, from traditional fish to vegetarian options, offering a smooth, coconut-scented texture.
4. Lemon Herb Sushi Rice
Adding lemon zest and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil gives sushi rice a refreshing, light twist. The citrusy flavor pairs well with grilled or marinated vegetables, making it a perfect side dish for a lighter meal or a vegetarian sushi roll.
5. Brown Sushi Rice
For a healthier, whole-grain option, brown rice is a great alternative. It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture that contrasts with traditional sushi rice. Brown sushi rice pairs perfectly with protein-packed fillings like grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
They are perfect for customizing your sushi experience, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Check out microwave fried rice recipe.
This sums up our section of microwave recipe variations. Now, we will move forward with some of the common queries regarding cooking sushi rice in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s address some of the most common questions about this recipe. This section ensures you have all the details you need for well-cooked sushi rice.
Can you cook sushi rice in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook sushi rice in the microwave. Simply rinse the rice, add water, and microwave it with a cover. It’s a quick and easy method that produces fluffy, sticky rice in under 15 minutes.
How long does it take to cook sushi rice in the microwave?
It takes about 10 minutes to cook sushi rice in the microwave, with an additional 5 minutes for resting. This quick method helps retain moisture and produces the perfect texture for sushi.
What kind of rice is best for sushi?
The best rice for sushi is short-grain Japanese rice, also called sushi rice. It has a sticky, tender texture that allows the rice to hold together, making it perfect for sushi rolls.
Can you use regular rice for sushi?
No, you cannot use regular rice for sushi. Sushi rice is sticky and designed to hold its shape, unlike regular long-grain rice. For optimal results, use short-grain rice for the best sushi texture.
How do you make sushi rice taste better?
To make sushi rice taste better, add rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to the cooked rice. Mix gently to coat the rice, and let it cool to room temperature before using it for sushi rolls or rice bowls.
This wraps up our section on frequently asked questions about microwave sushi rice recipe.
Final Word
These five microwave sushi rice variations offer quick, easy ways to enjoy sushi rice in different styles. Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or coconut-flavored rice, these recipes provide a delicious and versatile base for your dishes. Now you’re ready to cook sushi rice in the microwave with convenience and creativity.