The Best Way to Make Sushi in Singapore

If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at sushi-making but didn’t know where to start, you’re not alone. Crafting sushi at home may seem daunting, especially when you’re surrounded by Singapore’s outstanding sushi restaurants. However, with the right tools, fresh ingredients, and a bit of guidance, making sushi at home can be a fun, fulfilling, and surprisingly easy culinary adventure.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making sushi in Singapore—from sourcing premium ingredients to mastering simple sushi recipes. Whether you’re a budding chef or just looking for a new way to impress your friends, you’ll leave this post ready to roll (pun intended).

Why Make Your Own Sushi?

It’s Cost-Effective

Sushi can be pricey, especially if you frequent high-end sushi bars in Singapore. By making your own, you can enjoy restaurant-quality sushi at a fraction of the price.

Control Over Ingredients

Making sushi at home allows you to select the freshest fish, customize your sushi rolls with your favorite ingredients, and create healthier versions by skipping unnecessary additives.

It’s a Fun, Social Experience

Sushi-making is perfect for gatherings. Picture this—friends gathered around, rolling sushi Singapore, and laughing together over delicious creations.

What You Need to Get Started

Before assembling sushi, gathering the right tools and ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need to create beautiful, delicious sushi in your own kitchen.

Essential Tools

1. A Bamboo Sushi Mat (Makisu)

• For rolling sushi. These are widely available in kitchen stores or online.

2. A Sharp Knife

• To cut your sushi rolls neatly into even pieces. A sharp chef’s knife works fine, but a traditional Japanese yanagiba knife is ideal.

3. Rice Paddle (Shamoji)

• For evenly spreading cooked rice.

4. A Bowl of Water with Rice Vinegar

• Prevents rice from sticking to your hands and tools.

Sourcing Ingredients in Singapore

Singapore is a hub for international cuisine, so finding quality sushi ingredients is easier than you might think.

1. Rice

• Use Japanese short-grain rice for the stickiness required to hold sushi together. You can buy brands like Koshihikari at Japanese specialty stores such as Don Don Donki or Meidi-ya.

2. Nori (Seaweed)

• Look for high-quality nori sheets labeled as “Yaki Nori.” They should be shiny, crisp, and sturdy.

3. Fish

• Opt for sashimi-grade fish from trusted sources like The Fishwives, Japanese supermarkets, or wet markets like Tekka Market.

4. Vegetables

• Fresh cucumbers, avocado, and carrots are sushi staples. Find these at your nearest FairPrice Finest or Landmark Grocers.

5. Seasonings

• Don’t forget rice vinegar, soy sauce, wasabi, pickled ginger, and sesame seeds for that authentic flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sushi

Step 1: Prepare Your Sushi Rice

Perfect sushi starts with perfectly cooked rice.

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, preferably in a rice cooker.
3. While the rice is still warm, mix it with sushi vinegar (made by dissolving sugar and salt into rice vinegar). Use a cutting motion to avoid crushing the rice grains.

Step 2: Prep Your Fillings

• Slice your fish and ingredients into thin strips for easy handling and rolling. Make sure everything is uniform to create a balanced bite.

Step 3: Start Rolling!

1. Lay a piece of nori shiny-side down on your bamboo sushi mat.
2. Spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over two-thirds of the nori. Dip your fingers in your vinegar-water to prevent the rice from sticking.
3. Arrange your fillings horizontally across the rice. Popular combos include tuna and avocado, cucumber and crabstick, or salmon and cream cheese.
4. Use the bamboo mat to roll the sushi tightly, applying gentle pressure as you go.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

1. Wet your sharp knife with water to prevent it from sticking to the rice.
2. Slice the sushi into equal pieces, wipe your blade clean between cuts, and arrange neatly on a platter.
3. Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

Pro tip: For a modern twist, try making inside-out rolls (uramaki) by spreading the rice directly on the sushi mat and placing the nori on top before arranging your fillings.

Elevate Your Sushi Game with These Tips

• Experiment with Fillings: Get creative using local Singaporean flavors like sambal shrimp or chili crab.
• Make Nigiri: Shape rice into small ovals and place a slice of fish over them. Use a tiny dab of wasabi as “glue.”
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or tempura flakes for added texture.
• Try Tools Like Sushi Bazooka: These gadgets streamline the process and are great for beginners.

Where to Learn Sushi-Making in Singapore

For those keen to refine their skills or learn directly from experts, consider attending a sushi-making workshop. Classes are available at places like the CulinaryOn, Palate Sensations, or even the Japanese Association of Singapore.

Make Sushi Night a Tradition

Learning to prepare sushi is a delicious and rewarding experience, whether you’re doing it solo or with loved ones. It’s a chance to connect with food, celebrate flavors, and appreciate the art that goes into every roll. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of enjoying sushi you’ve handcrafted in your own kitchen.

Now that you’re equipped with knowledge, why not try your first sushi night this weekend? Invite your friends, get creative with flavors, and share your culinary masterpiece with the world.

Don’t forget to check out En Sushi for more tips to help you become a sushi pro!