Shamoji

A flat, paddle-shaped rice scoop used to serve and fluff cooked rice without crushing the grains, traditionally also used to fold in seasoned vinegar when making sushi rice.

Material & Construction

Traditionally carved from a single piece of wood or bamboo; modern versions are often molded plastic with a slightly textured, non-stick surface.

Traditional Uses

Serving cooked rice, and folding sushi vinegar through hot rice with a cutting-and-turning motion designed to season evenly without mashing the grains.

Modern Availability / Equivalents

Plastic shamoji are inexpensive and widely available internationally; any flat, wide-bladed spoon or spatula can substitute in a pinch.

Care & Maintenance

Hand-wash; wooden versions should be dried promptly and occasionally oiled, while plastic versions need no special care beyond routine washing.