How to make perfect sushi at home

How to make perfect sushi at home

If you’re a sushi lover, you already know the magic lies in balance... the perfect mix of soft, seasoned rice, fresh toppings, and that rich hit of umami. That’s why we created Umami Tsunami, our brand new sushi rice seasoning designed to give your homemade rolls a proper flavour boost. With a blend of seaweed, salt, and furikake, it transforms everyday sushi rice into something truly special.

In this post, we’re sharing a simple, delicious recipe that shows exactly how to use Umami Tsunami to elevate your sushi game—whether it’s your first roll or your fiftieth.

What you’ll need

For the sushi rice:

  • 2 cups sushi rice

  • 2½ cups water

  • ⅓ cup rice vinegar

  • 2 tbsp sugar

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 2 tbsp ZEST Umami Tsunami Salt Mix (includes seaweed, salt, and furikake)

For the rolls:

  • Nori sheets (seaweed)

  • Fresh veg like cucumber, avocado, or carrots

  • Fresh fish (salmon, tuna, or prawns) or tofu for a veggie option

  • Soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi for serving

How to make sushi rice with Umami Tsunami

1. Cook the sushi rice
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear. This removes excess starch and gives you that classic sushi texture. Cook the rice in a rice cooker with 2½ cups of water, or follow the instructions on your rice packet if cooking on the hob.

2. Make the seasoning
While the rice is still warm, gently heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small pan until the sugar dissolves. Pour this seasoning over the cooked rice and fold it through—be gentle to avoid smashing the grains.

3. Add the Umami Tsunami
Now for the game changer—sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of Umami Tsunami seasoning and mix it through the rice. The seaweed, furikake, and savoury salt create a depth of flavour that takes your sushi from good to unforgettable.

4. Build your rolls
Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on a bamboo mat. With slightly damp hands, spread a thin layer of your seasoned rice across the nori, leaving about an inch at the top bare. Add your fillings in a line across the middle—whether it’s fresh salmon and cucumber, or tofu and avocado.

5. Roll it up
Using the bamboo mat, gently but firmly roll the sushi away from you. Press lightly to keep it tight, then seal the edge with a touch of water. Use a sharp knife to slice into bite-sized rounds.

6. Serve and enjoy
Plate your rolls with a side of soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi. Every bite brings a burst of umami, thanks to the bold, savoury notes in the Umami Tsunami blend.

Why Umami Tsunami belongs in your kitchen

Good sushi starts with good rice - and our Umami Tsunami salt mix was made for it. Packed with seaweed and furikake, it adds an instant layer of depth that makes even the simplest roll taste restaurant-quality. It’s perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or simply spoiling yourself.

Whether you’re a sushi-making pro or just giving it a go for the first time, Umami Tsunami makes it easier (and tastier) than ever.

Our spice shop is launching soon, so keep an eye out for Umami Tsunami and other bold blends that are designed to transform your home cooking—one sprinkle at a time.