Can you substitute short grain rice for long in sushi?

It's not ideal, but you can technically substitute short grain rice for long grain rice in sushi. However, the results won't be the same, and it's generally not recommended. Here's why:

Short grain rice:

* Stickier: Has a higher starch content, making it very sticky. This is great for rice balls (onigiri), but it might be too sticky for sushi rolls.

* Chewier: Its texture is denser and chewier than long grain. This can make the sushi feel heavy and less delicate.

* Less flavourful: Short grain rice has a milder flavor than long grain, which can impact the overall taste of the sushi.

Long grain rice:

* Less sticky: Has a lower starch content, leading to a less sticky texture that holds together well in sushi rolls.

* Fluffy: It cooks up lighter and fluffier than short grain, providing a pleasant texture.

* More flavourful: Long grain rice has a more distinct flavor that complements the other ingredients in sushi.

Alternatives:

* Medium grain rice: Offers a good balance between long and short grain, making it a suitable substitute if you don't have long grain rice.

* Sushi rice: Specifically formulated for sushi, it has a high amylopectin content, making it sticky enough for sushi rolls.

If you're determined to use short grain rice:

* Cook it properly: Be careful not to overcook it, as this will make it even stickier.

* Use less rice: Use slightly less rice than you would for long grain to avoid overly sticky rolls.

* Be prepared: The sushi will be chewier and stickier than usual, so be aware of that before you start rolling.

Ultimately, the best option is to use long grain rice or sushi rice for the best sushi experience.