Sushi questions, answered

How do I make sushi rice

Rinse short-grain rice until the water runs clear, cook it, then fold in a warm mix of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Cool it to room temperature and it is ready to roll.

Can I roll sushi without a bamboo mat

Yes. A clean kitchen towel covered in plastic wrap works for most rolls, and a hand roll needs no mat at all. A bamboo mat just gives you a tighter, rounder roll.

What does sushi-grade fish mean

Sushi-grade or sashimi-grade fish has been handled and frozen to be eaten raw. Buy it from a trusted fishmonger and keep it cold until you serve it.

Which sushi roll is easiest for beginners

Start with a cucumber roll, an avocado roll, or a California roll. None use raw fish and all teach the basic rolling motion before you move on to nigiri and fish rolls.