Sushi Meshi

A vinegared rice mixture that is the base for sushi dishes. The short or medium grain rice is thoroughly rinsed, steamed or boiled, loosened and left standing for 10 to 15 minutes, and then flavored with sweetened rice vinegar (vinegar and sugar). The rice mixture is available premixed in Asian markets as is the sweetened vinegar, referred to as "sushizu." Sushi meshi may also be referred to as "shari."