7 Essential Tips for Making Perfect Sushi (Expert Advice from a Sushi Chef)

1. Keep your hands moist when handling sushi rice

To ensure the rice doesn't stick to your hands, moisten them with water (Te-Mizu) before touching the rice. This will help prevent any mishaps, as shown in the main picture of this article.

2. Avoid excessive moisture on your hands when working with sushi rice

While moist hands are beneficial, be cautious not to make them too wet. Excess water can dampen the sushi rice, causing it to crumble when applied to Nori Seaweed or formed into nigiri. Strike a balance between wet and dry for optimal results.

3. Incorporate vinegar or lemon juice into your hand water

Adding a touch of vinegar or lemon juice to your hand water can help break down the starch in the rice, making it easier to handle.

4. Minimize direct contact with sushi rice

Although it may seem obvious, reducing direct contact with sushi rice will keep your hands cleaner. Strive for efficiency and use tools when possible.

5. Ensure your knife is sharpened correctly before starting to make sushi

Sharp knives are indispensable for slicing rolls, vegetables, and fish with precision. If your knife lacks sharpness, consider investing in a reliable $30 Electric Knife Sharpener (affiliate link) available on Amazon. It works wonders, and I use it too.

6. Maintain sushi rice at body temperature (37°C or 98.6°F)

Keep the rice at body temperature for the best flavor, especially in Nigiri sushi. Use a suitable container to maintain the desired temperature, utilize a rice cooker to keep it warm, or gently reheat sushi rice in the microwave if it becomes too cold.

7. Keep your cutting board clean and free of food residue

A clean cutting board is crucial when preparing sushi. Any food debris on the board can interfere with the sushi-making process and may unintentionally adhere to your creations.

By following these seven essential tips, you'll be well on your way to crafting perfect sushi like a seasoned chef.

Breakthrough Sushi now offers online sushi-making class for team building, client appreciation, birthday, celebration and holiday event.

For more information about our online sushi making class, email: info@breakthroughsushi.com