Sushi Rice Instant Pot - Easy, Sticky, and Perfect Every Time
No rice cooker or guesswork required. This quick method is ideal for sushi rolls, bowls, and more!
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 4 small servings
Calories 170 kcal
- 1 cup sushi rice (short-grain Japanese rice)
- 1 cup water (1:1 ratio)
- 1-2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- ½ Tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp salt
Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This is important for removing excess starch and getting the right texture.
Add the rinsed rice and 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot.Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing.Use Manual or Pressure Cook mode on High Pressure for 5 minutes.Let it natural release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. While the rice is cooking, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Microwave it for 20–30 seconds to help dissolve everything.
Once the rice is done, transfer it to a wide bowl or sushi tub. Gently fold in the vinegar mixture with a wooden spoon or paddle—don’t mash the rice. Use a fan if you want that classic shiny sushi rice finish.
That’s it! You now have sushi rice ready for rolls, bowls, or nigiri.
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Calories come mainly from the rice carbs and the small amount of sugar in the vinegar seasoning.
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Sodium comes from the salt added to the vinegar mix.
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Values are approximate and can vary by brand and exact ingredient amounts.
Keyword instant pot, rice, sushi rice