When we speak of short-grain rice, the two most popular types that we can think of are Sushi rice and Arborio rice. Both types of rice are popular choices in their countries of origin. Thus, you may wonder if it’s the only difference or if there’s more to know about the two. So, you may ask: What is the difference between Sushi rice and Arborio rice?
Sushi rice and Arborio rice share the same shape and size. However, they differ in properties and use. For example, Arborio rice firms up when cooked, making it great for risotto. On the other hand, Sushi rice becomes sticky when cooked, making it great for sushi. Thus, you can’t use the two interchangeably.
Arborio rice and sushi rice can seem the same if you compare them side by side. However, once you cook the two, you’ll see how they differ. Thus, you need to ensure not to replace one over the other, which may give you something you won’t like.
This article will give an in-depth take on both types of rice and how they differ. This way, you can understand why you shouldn’t interchange the two and only use them in the recipe they were meant to be cooked.
Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
Is sushi rice and Arborio rice the same?
No, sushi rice and Arborio rice are not the same. Although they share the same shape and size and have a high amount of amylopectin, they can’t replace each other. Let’s look at each one of these types of rice to understand better.
What is sushi rice?
Sushi rice is a short-grain rice that cooks to a unique stickiness. High quantities of starch cause stickiness in the rice, which gelatinizes when cooked. Its gel-like, creamy texture makes it ideal for constructing sushi rolls.
Now is the time to clear up any doubt concerning sushi rice. Even while the sushi rice gets sticky when cooked, it does not explain what is also known as “sticky rice.”
Think of rice cakes when you hear the phrase “sticky rice.” Instead, sticky rice, commonly known as sweet rice, is a mainstay in Thai cuisine.
Although you may use any rice to make sushi, it will lack the smoothness that sushi rice provides. So, while making homemade sushi, look for rice with the label of sushi rice or any short-grain, stocky variety of rice.
What is Arborio rice?
Arborio rice is another popular form of short-grain rice. It was called for the region of Italy where it originated.
Arborio rice is also grown in the United States, particularly in Texas and California. Arborio rice is thicker, oval in form, and has a pearly white coating.
Because it is milled significantly less than long-grain rice, it is rich in starch, notably amylopectin.
In terms of flavor, Arborio rice absorbs the tastes of other ingredients quite well and is typically highly creamy. That’s why it’s the most popular risotto ingredient.
Is Arborio rice similar to sushi rice?
Arborio rice is similar to sushi rice, but only in its appearance and size. When cooked, you can see the difference between the two.
Arborio rice and sushi rice are comparable in form and size, and both have a high concentration of starch amylopectin. Both, however, cannot be used interchangeably.
The starch structures at the heart of an Arborio grain deform during maturity, resulting in a solid, toothy center when cooked. While this characteristic is perfect for risotto (it gives the dish its typical al dente texture), it is less than optimal for sushi or Asian-style rice.
In contrast, we attempted to make risotto with sushi rice. People think the resulting risotto was creamy, but “it wasn’t risotto” since the grains lacked Arborio rice’s typical al dente bite. In short, you cannot interchange both types of rice in recipes.
What is the difference between sushi rice and Arborio rice?
The difference between sushi rice and Arborio rice is noticeable in their properties and appearance. To understand these differences better, we wrote a list of aspects worth noting. Let’s look at each one to see how both rice differs from each other.
Sushi rice vs. Arborio rice taste and flavor
Although sushi rice and arborio rice have similar sizes and appearances, they differ in taste and flavor because of their texture.
When cooked, the starch structures in the center of an Arborio grain deform, resulting in a firm, toothy core. Although it is ideal for risotto (it gives the dish its trademark al dente texture), it is less than ideal for sushi or Asian-style rice.
People tried to create risotto out of sushi rice, on the other hand. The resultant risotto was creamy, but it “wasn’t risotto” since the grains lacked Arborio rice’s typical al dente bite.
In short, you cannot use both varieties of rice in the same dish. Although they look the same, they give different textures to recipes, which means you can alter the output of your dish if you interchange the two.
Sushi rice vs. Arborio rice uses
The uses of sushi rice and Arborio rice are also different due to the texture they give to the dish when cooked. The stickiness of sushi rice works well with sushi, while the firm but al dente texture of Arborio rice works well for a creamy risotto.
Although you can use any rice for any dish, you can’t make the best sushi and risotto without sushi rice and arborio rice, respectively. Further, you won’t find it ideal to interchange the two.
Sushi rice vs. Arborio rice calories and nutrition
Both the sushi rice and Arborio rice have the same amount of calories. In general, they offer 130 calories for every 100 grams of serving. But, of course, this amount will vary depending on your dish.
Can I substitute sushi rice for Arborio rice?
No, you cannot substitute sushi rice for arborio rice. While they are similar in size and shape, they don’t have the same texture when cooked.
Of course, you can try substituting sushi rice with Arborio rice in making risotto. However, while you may achieve the creaminess, you won’t get the al dente bite that you can enjoy with Arborio rice.
For this reason, it would be best to find better alternatives or look for Arborio rice when making risotto.
Can I substitute Arborio rice for sushi rice?
No, you cannot substitute Arborio rice for sushi rice. Though they come in similar sizes and shapes, they don’t have the same texture when cooked.
Arborio rice isn’t an excellent option for Asian meals because of a flaw known as “chalk.” During development, the starch at the center of an Arborio grain distorts, resulting in a solid, toothy center when boiled.
Even though this characteristic is perfect for risotto since it provides its typical al dente texture, it is less than optimal for sushi or rice used to complement Asian foods. Thus, it would be best to find a better replacement or look for sushi rice when making sushi.
Is Arborio rice OK for sushi?
No, Arborio rice is not OK for sushi. As I mentioned, Arborio grains distort when cooked. But, at the same time, they remain firm, giving an al dente texture to food.
Thus, although Arborio rice is short-grain, it’s not ideal rice to use when preparing or cooking sushi.
Summary
In a nutshell, Sushi rice and Arborio rice differ from each other despite being both short-grain rice. Arborio rice and sushi rice may have the same shape and size.
They do, however, differ in terms of features and application. For example, Arborio rice becomes firmer when cooked, making it ideal for risotto.
Sushi rice, on the other hand, gets sticky when cooked, making it ideal for sushi. Thus, you can’t use the two interchangeably.
Related:
- Sushi Rice vs. Brown Rice
- Sushi Rice vs. White Rice
- Sushi Rice vs. Sticky Rice
- Sushi Rice vs. Calrose Rice
Resources
Image credits – Canva
