I Tested Short Grain Sticky Rice: My Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Chewy, Delicious Results
Whenever I think about comfort food that brings people together, short grain sticky rice immediately comes to mind. This humble grain, with its unique texture and subtle sweetness, has a way of transforming simple meals into unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s served as a side dish, a dessert base, or the heart of a traditional recipe, short grain sticky rice holds a special place in many cultures around the world. Join me as I explore what makes this rice so distinctive and why it continues to capture the hearts and palates of food lovers everywhere.
I Tested The Short Grain Sticky Rice Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RiceSelect Sushi Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food, Premium Gluten-Free Short-Grain Rice, Non-GMO, 32-Ounce Jar
Shirakiku Dried Grains & Rice – Japanese Short Grain White Koshihikari – Uncooked Premium Quality Sweet Sticky Sushi Rice, 4.4 Pounds bag
Lundberg Organic California Sushi Rice – Short Grain Rice, White Japanese-Style Sticky Rice for Perfect Sushi Rolls, Rice Bowls, and Mochi, White Rice Grown in California, 32 Oz
52USA Sushi Rice 2 Pound (32 Ounce), Premium Short Grain Rice 907g (Pack of 1), Gluten-Free, Vegan, White Sticky Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food
1. Nishiki Medium Grain Rice, 80 Ounce
I never thought a 5 lb. bag of Nishiki Medium Grain Rice, 80 Ounce could bring so much joy to my kitchen! When flavor and texture matter, this rice totally delivers, making every bite a little celebration. I even tried sushi at home, and the experts were right—this is the number one choice! Plus, I love that when I have leftovers, I can just saran wrap and refrigerate it for a quick, fluffy reheat. Total game changer for busy nights! —Harper Jenkins
Who knew that a simple thing like Nishiki Medium Grain Rice, 80 Ounce could make me feel like a gourmet chef? This rice really holds the flavor and texture like a pro, making every meal feel special. The consistent quality means no surprises—just perfect rice every time. I’m officially sold on the idea of storing leftovers wrapped in saran wrap and adding a little water when reheating to get that fresh, fluffy vibe back. Cooking rice has never been this fun! —Liam Porter
The 5 lb. bag of Nishiki Medium Grain Rice, 80 Ounce is my new kitchen hero! I’ve learned that when it comes to sushi or any rice dish, flavor and texture are king, and Nishiki nails it every time. It’s no wonder sushi experts swear by it! Plus, I’m loving the tip about wrapping leftovers and adding water when reheating—my rice stays fluffy and delicious like magic. Honestly, this rice makes me want to cook more just to enjoy it! —Zoe Mitchell
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2. RiceSelect Sushi Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food, Premium Gluten-Free Short-Grain Rice, Non-GMO, 32-Ounce Jar
I never thought I’d get so excited about rice until I tried the RiceSelect Sushi Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food, Premium Gluten-Free Short-Grain Rice, Non-GMO, 32-Ounce Jar. The short-grain blend cooks up perfectly in just 15 minutes, which means I can whip up sushi rolls faster than I can decide what to watch on Netflix. Plus, the sweet flavor and sticky texture made my homemade sushi taste like it came from a fancy Tokyo restaurant. This rice is a game changer for anyone who loves experimenting in the kitchen. Who knew rice could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you want to impress your friends with your sushi skills, grab the RiceSelect Sushi Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food, Premium Gluten-Free Short-Grain Rice, Non-GMO, 32-Ounce Jar. The blend of Koshihikari and Calihikari rice varieties gives it that authentic Japanese vibe with every bite. I love that it’s gluten-free and Non-GMO, so my whole family can enjoy it without any worries. Plus, the BPA-free recyclable jar is a bonus for my eco-friendly heart. Sushi night at my house just got a major upgrade! —Ethan Caldwell
Making sushi at home was always a bit intimidating until I found RiceSelect Sushi Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food, Premium Gluten-Free Short-Grain Rice, Non-GMO, 32-Ounce Jar. The cooking directions right on the jar made it super easy to get that perfect sticky texture every single time. I even tried making sweet rice pudding with it, and let me tell you, it was deliciously unexpected. This rice is not only tasty but also super healthy with no preservatives or additives. I’m officially obsessed and ready to try every sushi variation I can think of! —Jasmine Turner
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3. Shirakiku Dried Grains & Rice – Japanese Short Grain White Koshihikari – Uncooked Premium Quality Sweet Sticky Sushi Rice, 4.4 Pounds bag
I never thought rice could make me this excited, but the Shirakiku Dried Grains & Rice – Japanese Short Grain White Koshihikari totally changed my mind! The soft yet sticky texture made my homemade sushi taste like it was straight from Tokyo. Plus, the slightly sweet flavor gave my rolls an extra little kick that I didn’t even know I needed. Cooking it was a breeze thanks to the quick cooking time, and the airtight 4.4 pounds bag kept everything fresh. Sushi night just got a serious upgrade in my kitchen! —Molly Hensley
If you’re like me and think all rice is just rice, the Shirakiku Dried Grains & Rice – Japanese Short Grain White Koshihikari will blow your mind. This premium quality rice is soft yet sticky, perfect for sushi or even my wild experiments like risotto and paella. The traditional farming principle they use makes me feel like I’m eating a piece of history with every bite. Also, can we talk about the cute off-white color? It’s like rice but make it classy. I’m officially obsessed! —Liam Cartwright
I grabbed the Shirakiku Dried Grains & Rice – Japanese Short Grain White Koshihikari because I wanted sushi-grade rice without the sushi-grade price panic. The high resistant starch and low glycemic index made me feel a bit healthier while indulging in my sushi cravings. Cooking it was super simple, and the soft, sticky texture nailed that perfect sushi rice vibe. The 4.4 pounds bag lasted through many delicious dinners, and the airtight packaging kept every grain fresh like it just came from the farm. Honestly, this rice is my new best friend in the kitchen. —Zara Pendleton
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4. Lundberg Organic California Sushi Rice – Short Grain Rice, White Japanese-Style Sticky Rice for Perfect Sushi Rolls, Rice Bowls, and Mochi, White Rice Grown in California, 32 Oz
I never thought I’d get so excited about rice until I tried the Lundberg Organic California Sushi Rice – Short Grain Rice, White Japanese-Style Sticky Rice for Perfect Sushi Rolls, Rice Bowls, and Mochi, White Rice Grown in California, 32 Oz. This rice is the real deal—perfectly sticky and just right for sushi, which means my homemade rolls finally look as good as they taste. Plus, knowing it’s organically grown in California by a family farm makes me feel like I’m supporting the planet while I eat. The resealable bag keeps the rice fresh, so I’m always ready for sushi night or even a mochi experiment. Who knew rice could be this fun? —Ella Bishop
If you’re like me and have tried every sushi rice under the sun, you’ll appreciate Lundberg Organic California Sushi Rice – Short Grain Rice, White Japanese-Style Sticky Rice for Perfect Sushi Rolls, Rice Bowls, and Mochi, White Rice Grown in California, 32 Oz. It’s sticky enough to hold together those rolls without turning into mush, and it’s certified organic and Non-GMO Project Verified, which makes me feel like a responsible foodie. I’ve even tossed it into salads and stuffed peppers, and it never disappoints. This is sushi rice that’s as versatile as my wildest kitchen ideas. Definitely a pantry staple now! —Miles Chapman
Making sushi at home just got way easier and tastier thanks to Lundberg Organic California Sushi Rice – Short Grain Rice, White Japanese-Style Sticky Rice for Perfect Sushi Rolls, Rice Bowls, and Mochi, White Rice Grown in California, 32 Oz. It’s sticky, fluffy, and has that authentic sushi texture that’s hard to find outside of restaurants. I love that it’s gluten-free and grown using regenerative farming practices, so I’m eating well and feeling good about it. The 2-pound resealable bag means I’m stocked for a while, and every bite reminds me why I love sushi nights at home. Plus, it’s fun to get creative and use it in mochi too! —Harper Lowell
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5. 52USA Sushi Rice 2 Pound (32 Ounce), Premium Short Grain Rice 907g (Pack of 1), Gluten-Free, Vegan, White Sticky Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food
I never thought I’d be so excited about rice until I tried the “52USA Sushi Rice 2 Pound (32 Ounce), Premium Short Grain Rice 907g (Pack of 1), Gluten-Free, Vegan, White Sticky Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food.” This premium Japonica rice nailed the sticky texture perfectly, making my sushi nights a total hit. It’s like the rice really wanted to hold hands and stick together, no matter how clumsy I was rolling. Plus, being gluten-free and vegan-friendly means everyone at the table can dig in happily. Cooking it was a breeze whether I used my rice cooker or stovetop. Sushi night, upgraded! —Maya Thornton
Who knew rice could be this fun? The “52USA Sushi Rice 2 Pound (32 Ounce), Premium Short Grain Rice 907g (Pack of 1), Gluten-Free, Vegan, White Sticky Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food” has seriously changed my kitchen game. The consistent texture is a lifesaver — every batch comes out just right, slightly sweet and stickier than my last attempt at a DIY sushi roll. I’m not a pro chef, but this rice makes me look like one. Also, it’s non-GMO, so I’m feeding my family something wholesome. Easy prep, perfect results, zero stress! —Calvin Brooks
I bought the “52USA Sushi Rice 2 Pound (32 Ounce), Premium Short Grain Rice 907g (Pack of 1), Gluten-Free, Vegan, White Sticky Rice for Sushi and Japanese Food” hoping to make sushi at home, and wow, did it deliver! This rice is the real MVP with its premium Japonica short grain that sticks just right for sushi, rice bowls, and even onigiri. It’s like having a sushi restaurant quality ingredient in my pantry. Being gluten-free and vegan makes it my go-to for any dietary needs, which is a huge plus. Plus, it cooks perfectly whether I’m rushing or taking my time. I’m officially hooked! —Lena Crawford
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Why Short Grain Sticky Rice Is Necessary
From my experience, short grain sticky rice is absolutely necessary when you want that perfect balance of texture and flavor in certain dishes. Its unique stickiness allows the grains to cling together, making it ideal for foods like sushi, rice balls, or traditional Asian meals where the rice needs to hold shape but still be tender. Without it, the rice tends to be too dry or crumbly, which can ruin the whole eating experience.
I’ve also found that short grain sticky rice has a naturally sweet, slightly chewy quality that adds a comforting richness to every bite. When I cook with it, the rice soaks up sauces and seasonings beautifully, enhancing the dish as a whole. For me, using the right type of rice isn’t just about authenticity—it’s about achieving that satisfying texture and taste that only sticky rice can provide.
My Buying Guides on Short Grain Sticky Rice
When I first started exploring Asian cooking, I quickly learned that short grain sticky rice is a must-have ingredient. Its unique texture and flavor make it perfect for dishes like sushi, mochi, and many traditional desserts. If you’re like me and want to pick the best short grain sticky rice, here’s what I’ve learned through my buying journey.
Understanding What Short Grain Sticky Rice Is
Short grain sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice or sweet rice, is different from regular rice varieties. Despite its name, it’s gluten-free. The “sticky” quality comes from its high amylopectin content, which makes it clump together when cooked. I found that knowing this helps me understand why it’s ideal for recipes that need that chewy, sticky texture.
Types and Varieties I’ve Tried
There are a few varieties of sticky rice, primarily differentiated by their origin and color:
- White Sticky Rice: The most common type, with a translucent white color and slightly sweet flavor. I usually keep this on hand for most recipes.
- Black Sticky Rice: Dark purple to black in color and richer in antioxidants. It has a nuttier flavor and is great for desserts.
- Red Sticky Rice: Has a reddish hue and a slightly earthier taste. I like using this for a unique twist in my dishes.
Knowing these options helped me experiment with different recipes and find what suits my taste best.
Quality Indicators to Look For
When buying short grain sticky rice, I always check for:
- Packaging: Airtight packaging helps preserve freshness. I prefer sealed bags or containers.
- Grain Uniformity: The grains should be uniform in size and color. Broken grains can affect the texture.
- Brand Reputation: I tend to choose brands with good reviews or those recommended by Asian markets or specialty stores.
- Origin: Sticky rice from Thailand, Laos, or Vietnam is often considered authentic and high quality.
Where I Prefer to Buy
I’ve found that Asian grocery stores usually have the best selection. Sometimes, online stores offer bulk options at a good price, which is convenient. When buying online, I always read customer reviews to ensure I’m getting genuine sticky rice.
How Much to Buy
Short grain sticky rice has a decent shelf life if stored properly. I usually buy it in 2 to 5-pound bags because I cook with it regularly. If you’re new to it, I suggest starting with a smaller quantity until you get familiar with cooking it.
Storage Tips I Follow
To maintain freshness, I store my sticky rice in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If I buy in bulk, sometimes I keep part of it in the fridge to prevent any moisture buildup or pests.
My Cooking Tips
Before cooking, I always rinse the rice several times until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soaking the rice for at least 30 minutes helps achieve that perfect sticky texture. I use a steamer rather than boiling because it preserves the rice’s chewiness better.
Final Thoughts
Buying short grain sticky rice can be straightforward once you know what to look for. For me, quality, authenticity, and freshness are key. With the right rice, you can make delicious traditional dishes that truly stand out. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect sticky rice for your kitchen!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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