Create Your Own Best Sushi in Singapore

Sushi is more than just a delightful Japanese delicacy; it’s an art form. While Singapore boasts an array of world-class sushi joints, there’s something satisfying about creating your own sushi, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a fun weekend activity. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need years of training or an arsenal of professional tools to make sushi that wows. With a few simple steps and the right ingredients, you can craft best sushi Singapore that’s fresh, delicious, and uniquely yours.

This blog will guide you through the entire process—from choosing the best ingredients in Singapore to rolling your first sushi roll. Expect simple techniques, useful tips, and local shopping recommendations so you can elevate your sushi-making game.

What You Need to Make Sushi at Home

Before you start making sushi, ensure you have the essential tools and ingredients. Don’t worry if this feels foreign; you can easily find the items listed below in Singapore’s supermarkets or specialty stores.

Essential Tools

• Bamboo Rolling Mat (Makisu): This traditional mat is crucial for rolling sushi tightly and evenly.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for clean, precise cuts, especially for sashimi and slicing your rolls.
• Rice Paddle: This helps evenly spread rice without crushing the grains.
• Wooden Mixing Bowl: Ideal for cooling and seasoning the rice because it absorbs excess moisture.

Bonus Tip: If you don’t have a rolling mat, try wrapping cling wrap around a clean towel for a makeshift sushi-rolling mat!

Ingredients Checklist

Here’s everything you need to get started:

• Sushi Rice: Look for short-grain Japanese rice like Nishiki or Koshihikari for that perfect sticky consistency.
• Rice Vinegar, Sugar, and Salt: These staples help you season your rice and achieve that signature sushi rice flavor.
• Nori (Seaweed Sheets): Essential for making rolls, it’s widely available at Japanese marts like Don Don Donki or Isetan.
• Fresh Fish: Look for sashimi-grade salmon, tuna, or other fresh seafood at trusted suppliers like Tekka Market or Meidi-Ya.
• Vegetables & Other Fillings: Options like cucumber, avocado, or tamago (Japanese omelette) add refreshing flavors and textures.
• Soy Sauce, Wasabi, and Pickled Ginger: For the perfect finishing touch when serving.

Where to Shop for Ingredients in Singapore

Finding fresh, high-quality ingredients in Singapore is a breeze if you know where to look. Here’s a quick guide to help:

• Don Don Donki: A one-stop shop for authentic Japanese ingredients, including premium sushi rice and sashimi-grade fish.
• Meidi-Ya and Isetan Supermarkets: These Japanese supermarkets offer fresh seafood, nori, and exotic sushi toppings.
• Wet Markets Like Tekka or Jurong Fish Port: Perfect for finding sashimi-grade seafood early in the morning.
• Cold Storage or NTUC FairPrice Finest: These carry sushi essentials for beginners at affordable prices.

Pro Tip: Always ask whether the seafood is “sashimi-grade” to ensure it’s safe to consume raw.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Sushi

Now it’s time to get hands-on. Follow these steps to create your own batch of sushi that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 1: Prepare Sushi Rice

Making good sushi is all about perfecting the rice.

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Cook the rice using a rice cooker or the stovetop. Follow the 1:1.2 ratio for rice to water.
3. While the rice cooks, mix 1/2 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 tablespoon salt. Warm the mixture until dissolved.
4. Once cooked, transfer the rice to a wooden mixing bowl and drizzle the vinegar mixture over it. Fold gently for even seasoning while allowing it to cool.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip washing the rice—this ensures the rice is sticky but not gummy.

Step 2: Prepare Fillings

While the rice cools, prepare your fillings. Slice fresh fish into thin, even pieces and julienne vegetables like avocado and cucumber into thin strips.

Step 3: Roll Your Sushi

Here’s the fun part:

1. Place your bamboo mat on a flat surface and lay a sheet of nori, shiny side down.
2. Using the rice paddle or damp hands, spread an even layer of rice across the nori, leaving about 1 inch uncovered on one end.
3. Add your fillings in a neat row about ⅓ of the way from the bottom edge of the rice.
4. Lift the mat and carefully roll it forward, pressing gently but firmly to shape it into a roll.
5. Seal by brushing a bit of water on the exposed edge of nori and roll it completely.

Pro Tip: Wrap your bamboo mat in cling wrap to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy!

Step 4: Slice the Roll

Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into even pieces. Dip the knife in water between slices for clean, professional-looking results.

Step 5: Serve

Arrange your sushi on a platter, serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger, and enjoy your masterpiece.

Choosing Your Sushi Style

Not sure what type of sushi to make? Here are some ideas depending on your mood or skill level:

• Maki (Rolls): Perfect for beginners, these include fillings wrapped in rice and nori.
• Nigiri: A slightly more advanced option, these are small rice mounds topped with sashimi.
• Temaki (Hand Rolls): These cone-shaped rolls are ideal for casual dining.

Feel free to experiment and get creative. Add mango, spicy mayo, or even fried crab for fusion-inspired rolls!

Tips for Elevating Your Homemade Sushi

• Experiment with Garnishes: Try topping your rolls with sesame seeds, fish roe, or homemade spicy mayo.
• Play with Plating: Add bamboo leaves or elegant dipping dishes to impress your guests.
• Invest in Quality Seafood: Fresh ingredients can make or break your sushi.

Why Making Sushi Is Worth It

Crafting your own sushi is not just a creative outlet; it’s a way to connect with Japanese food culture, celebrate the art of cooking, and even bond with friends and family. Plus, you get the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your food—perfect for the health-conscious.

You don’t need a Michelin-star background to make sushi in Singapore. Just the right ingredients, a pinch of creativity, and a willingness to learn will have you rolling like a pro in no time.

Take Your Sushi Game to the Next Level

Now that you’re armed with this full guide, it’s time to get rolling! Whether you’re crafting delicate nigiri or dazzling your friends with colorful maki rolls just like they have at En Sushi, making sushi at home is always an exciting adventure.

For more recipes and tips, subscribe to our newsletter or join one of our sushi-making workshops conducted by local chefs in Singapore. Who knows—your next sushi creation might just rival the best sushi bars in town.