How To Eat Sushi In 6 Steps

Cover travelling Archives Nuno Prospero dos Santos (610x4500)

Table of Contents

1. What is Sushi?
2. How to Eat Sushi?
3. What are the Types of Sushi?
4. Can Sushi be Eaten with Hands?
5. What to Drink with Sushi?

What is Sushi?

Sushi is a Japanese dish that consists of vinegared rice, seafood, vegetables, and sometimes fruits. It is usually served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. Sushi comes in different shapes and sizes, such as nigiri, maki, and temaki, and can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course.

How to Eat Sushi?

Eating sushi is an art that requires some skills and knowledge. Here are six steps on how to eat sushi properly:

1. Start with the lightest flavor. Begin with the white fish or vegetable sushi and work your way up to the stronger flavors like tuna and salmon.
2. Dip the sushi in soy sauce. Do not overdo it, as it can overpower the flavor of the sushi. Also, avoid putting the rice in the soy sauce, as it can make the sushi fall apart.
3. Use chopsticks or your fingers. If you are using chopsticks, hold them near the thicker end and use the thinner end to pick up the sushi. If you prefer to use your fingers, make sure they are clean and dry.
4. Do not mix wasabi in soy sauce. It is considered disrespectful in Japan. Instead, put a small amount of wasabi directly on the sushi.
5. Eat the sushi in one bite. This way, you can experience the different flavors and textures of the sushi in one go.
6. Finish with a piece of pickled ginger. It helps cleanse your palate and prepare it for the next piece of sushi.

What are the Types of Sushi?

There are several types of sushi, including:

• Nigiri: A slice of raw fish on top of a small ball of rice.
• Maki: Rice and filling rolled in seaweed and sliced into bite-sized pieces.
• Temaki: A cone-shaped hand roll with rice, filling, and seaweed.
• Chirashi: A bowl of sushi rice with various toppings, such as sashimi, omelet, and vegetables.
• Inari: Fried tofu filled with sushi rice.

Can Sushi be Eaten with Hands?

Yes, sushi can be eaten with hands or chopsticks. It is a matter of personal preference. In Japan, it is common to eat nigiri with hands and maki with chopsticks. However, if you are unsure, it is best to follow the lead of your Japanese host or the sushi chef.

What to Drink with Sushi?

Traditionally, sake is served with sushi. However, you can also pair sushi with beer, white wine, or green tea. The choice of drink depends on the type of sushi and your personal taste. For example, lighter sushi goes well with white wine or green tea, while heavier sushi pairs well with sake or beer.

Conclusion

Sushi is a delicious and healthy dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. By following the proper etiquette and techniques, you can fully appreciate the flavor and texture of sushi. Whether you prefer nigiri, maki, or temaki, there is a type of sushi to suit your taste. So go ahead and indulge in this culinary delight!