Sushi for Beginners - The ABCs of Iconic Japanese Food

Sushi is a popular Japanese dish that has become increasingly popular in Slovakia in recent years. This iconic cuisine is enjoyed by foodies across the world, and for good reason. Sushi is not only delicious but also healthy and versatile.

If you're new to this cuisine, you may feel overwhelmed by the different types of sushi and the etiquette that goes along with eating it. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of sushi to get you started.

What is Sushi?

Sushi is a Japanese dish that typically consists of rice, seafood, and vegetables. The ingredients are rolled together in a sheet of seaweed called nori and then sliced into bite-sized pieces. Sushi can also be served as individual pieces without the nori wrap and is commonly accompanied by soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Types of Sushi

There are several types of sushi, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Maki

Maki sushi is the most common type of sushi. It consists of sushi rice and ingredients, such as fish, vegetables, or egg, rolled up in nori. Maki sushi is cut into bite-sized pieces and is often served with soy sauce and wasabi.

2. Nigiri

Nigiri sushi is a type of sushi that consists of a small piece of fish or seafood on top of a ball of sushi rice. It is typically served with soy sauce and wasabi.

3. Temaki

Temaki sushi, also known as hand rolls, are cone-shaped sushi rolls that are made with nori, sushi rice, and various fillings such as crab, tuna, or avocado. They are usually eaten with hands.

4. Uramaki

Uramaki sushi is also known as inside-out sushi, as the rice is on the outside of the roll. This type of sushi is often filled with ingredients such as avocado, cucumber, shrimp, and crab and is commonly served with soy sauce and wasabi.

Sushi Etiquette

When it comes to sushi, there are certain rules and etiquette that should be followed to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Although these rules may not be followed strictly in all cultures, it is still important to be familiar with them, especially when dining in a traditional sushi restaurant.

One of the most important rules of sushi etiquette is to use chopsticks when eating sushi. If you are uncomfortable using chopsticks, you can ask for a fork, but it is best to practice using chopsticks to experience the cuisine fully.

When dipping sushi in soy sauce, it is essential to use it sparingly. Overuse of soy sauce can overpower the flavour of the sushi

It is also important to never mix wasabi with soy sauce. In Japan, it is considered impolite to mix wasabi with soy sauce. Instead, place a small amount of wasabi directly onto the sushi to enhance its flavour.

Sushi is traditionally designed to be eaten in one bite. This allows you to experience all the flavours and textures of the sushi at once, making for a more enjoyable dining experience. It is also important to eat sushi properly to avoid dropping any rice or fish on the table or your clothing.

Pickled ginger is often served with sushi as a palate cleanser. It is meant to be eaten between different types of sushi to refresh your palate and prepare your taste buds for the next flavourful bite. Use the chopsticks to pick up the ginger and place it directly on your tongue rather than using it to scoop up any excess soy sauce.

In addition to these rules, practice good table manners when dining on sushi. This includes not talking with your mouth full, not blowing your nose at the table, and not using your mobile phone during the meal.

Try Out Sushi Today!

Sushi is a delicious and healthy cuisine that foodies across the world enjoy. Whether you're trying sushi for the first time or are a seasoned sushi lover, it's important to know the different types of sushi and the etiquette that goes along with eating it!

Do you want to try out making sushi on your own? Get everything you need at Foodland, the leading Asian grocery store in Bratislavia! Check out our selection of items, and place your order now!