Future Foods Sushi Rice, this classic vinegared, firm, sticky, short-grain white rice is the foundation for all sushi (Sushi literally means "sour-tasting" in Japanese). It's one of the main factors that separates the so-so sushi from the stellar sushi. The good news is that excellent sushi rice is quite easy to make at home in either a rice cooker, pressure cooker or on the stovetop. And all you need to make it are three basic ingredients: Japanese-style short-grain white rice, rice vinegar, and sugar.