Can You Use Sushi Rice for Paella? (Solved!)

Do you want to make your favorite paella, but you only have sushi rice? Or, you accidentally picked up sushi rice at the supermarket?

The sushi rice in supermarkets is usually short-grain Japanese white rice prepared slightly differently to be used in sushi. The rice is generally stickier and pastier than regular rice when cooked.

So, can you use sushi rice for paella? Yes, you can! Sushi rice is an adequate alternative for paella. Keep on reading to learn how you can make it work.

Will Sushi Rice Work for Paella?

To make paella, you need short-grain rice, typically Spanish Bomba, but other short-grain rice like Italian risotto or Japanese sushi rice can be used instead.

The stock used to boil the rice is also a crucial element.

So, yes, sushi rice will work for your paella. However, there are a few things you have to keep in mind while making it.

Typically, sushi rice requires a 1:1 rice to water ratio (one cup of water for one cup of rice), and you reduce the water amount when adding vinegar after the rice is cooked.

When making paella, you don’t need to add vinegar later. As a result, you’ll want the rice somewhat firmer, usually at a 1:1.1 or 1:1.2 ratio similar to regular steamed rice.

The final texture of sushi rice is heavily influenced by the ratio of rice to water in the preparation process. Because of the variety of uses for rice, its consistency might be essential.

If the rice is too sticky or too dry when it’s done cooking, change the amount of water the next time.

Use less water if it’s overly sticky. If the mixture is very dry, a small amount of water can be added.

Don’t try to make already cooked rice less or more dry. It won’t end well, so just use a new batch.

However, a paella should not be a creamy dish but rather individual rice grains that have absorbed the liquid they were cooked in.

Japanese short-grain rice can be used if it’s rinsed several times before being added to the cooking procedure. Rinsing it around eight times will be sufficient to remove the additional starch and prevent sticking or mushing.

Can I Use Long Grain Rice for Paella?

Short-grain rice is essential for this dish. Medium-grain rice is fine, but long-grain rice is entirely unacceptable.

This goes for long-grain Japanese rice and any other long-grain rice type.

If possible, use Bomba rice, a variety of rice cultivated in Spain. This Spanish paella rice is difficult to come by and expensive, but it is well worth the cost for this specific one-pot meal.

Alternatively, if you don’t mind dealing with more finicky rice grains, choose the Valencia medium grain rice.

However, if you’re not an experienced cook, don’t use Valencia rice for paella since it cooks much faster than Bomba.

This means that the pot must be carefully monitored to not overcook the dish.

Tips for Using Sushi Rice for Paella

Making paella for the first time, and all you’ve got is store-bought sushi rice? Follow my tips to make it a perfect meal.

Only Use Short-Grain Sushi Rice

Because of its consistency, this rice is ideal for use in paella. Unlike long-grain rice, short-grain rice is radically different when fully cooked.

Some rice will clump together due to the rice’s tendency to become a little stickier.

In addition, this rice is ideal for soaking up the delicious aromas and tastes of the paella pan.

Stick to the Recipe

There is a multitude of infusions in today’s culinary scene. As more and more individuals adopt new dietary choices like veganism and keto, it’s natural to want to improvise in the kitchen.

Vegan paella is certainly permissible; however, it ceases to be paella if the dish is made with vegan ingredients.

The authenticity of paella is one of its greatest appeals; therefore, refrain from tampering with the recipe.

Go Easy With Seasoning

This may be a challenge for those who enjoy spicy foods. Adding hot sauce or spicy peppers is a no-no.

Instead, you may use saffron, paprika, or even saffron threads to give your dish a smoky flavor.

Don’t Stir It

When making paella, you’ll have to put your need to stir your meal to one side because it’s strictly forbidden.

When you stir the rice as it cooks, you avoid the formation of the delicious bottom crust, which is a highlight of paella.

In Summary

Short-grain Japanese rice is excellent for making paella; simply choose what type of paella you want to make.

he beauty of this classic Spanish meal is that you can cook it with various ingredients and not worry about producing a bad paella.

The most popular one is seafood paella. However, you can make paella with chicken, rabbit, or duck. Or, you can opt for a mixed paella with seafood, meat, vegetables, beans, and seasonings.

So, whenever you’re in the mood to create a delicious meal and decide to make paella, make sure you have all the necessary items.