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A plate of sushi | Source: Pexels
7 Facts about Sushi You May Want to Know before Indulging in It
Dec 11, 202309:32 A.M.
Sushi stands out as a globally cherished Japanese dish in the world of culinary delights. Beyond its exceptional taste, sushi boasts health benefits that appeal to health-conscious food lovers.
Sushi is an iconic dish with intriguing facts, such as the artistry involved in the age-old practice of enjoying it with bare hands and the proper etiquette for savoring each piece. The dish's captivating history only enhances its allure.
Beyond being a simple meal, sushi is a celebration of flavor, wellness, and culinary history. Exploring the intricacies of what we place on our palates is always enriching, and sushi offers a particularly captivating journey of culinary discovery.
Assorted sushi | Source: Pexels
What We Know About Sushi
Sushi is Japan's most renowned culinary creation and holds a special place in the hearts of its people. Traditionally reserved for festive occasions, this iconic Japanese dish has evolved over centuries.
Originally, "sushi" referred to pickled fish steeped in vinegar, but its modern take revolves around rice prepared with sushi vinegar. This dish is diverse, featuring various types such as Nigiri, Gunkan, Norimaki, and Temaki, each offering a unique culinary experience.
Sushi's origins can be traced to the ninth century when it likely reached Japan, becoming popular as Buddhism spread. Beyond Japan, sushi has become a global sensation, appreciated for its diverse preparations and styles.
If you're a sushi lover, here are 7 facts we've uncovered to enrich your knowledge about the dish before you head out to your favorite sushi place.
A stunning assortment of sushi on a plate. | Source: Pexels
1. Sushi has health benefits.
According to health experts, sushi can be a nutritious option. This dish blends lean protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Salmon, tuna, and mackerel provide omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health, while seaweed (nori) contains antioxidants and essential vitamins.
Sushi also delivers vitamin D, B vitamins, and iodine, supporting bone health and energy production. However, it's also crucial to be mindful of the calorie content of rice. Experts advise choosing sashimi or sushi with cucumber and avocado for a lower-calorie option.
A cucumber-wrapped sushi | Source: Pexels
2. Grocery store sushi tastes different than the sushi in restaurants.
Grocery store sushi tastes different–often sour—from restaurant sushi due to factors like fish oxidation and storage. Store-bought sushi may be lower quality because of fish quality, preparation, and refrigerated storage.
Some grocery stores offer decent sushi but don't have the culinary experience that high-end sushi restaurants offer. Supermarket sushi, although safe to eat, often loses flavor in the refrigerator, and handling during production may affect its quality.
A pack of assorted sushi | Source: Pexels
3. There's a right way to eat sushi with your hands.
The most common way to enjoy sushi is with chopsticks, but it's totally acceptable to savor this dish with your hands! According to sushi chef Naomichi Yasuda, you should use your fingers to hold a roll of sushi.
Dip one side of the sushi into soy sauce, ensuring you have the right amount. Appreciate the flavors of the seaweed roll and the ginger, but refrain from using soy sauce for these components. Eat the sushi without shaking it, maintaining a balanced approach.
4. Originally, sushi rice was thrown away.
Sushi was initially a way to preserve fish, using fermented rice to store it for up to a year. This method, known as "narezushi," involved throwing away the rice and only eating the fish.
In the 16th century, a new version called "namanarezushi" emerged. This type used vinegared rice, which people started eating instead of discarding. This style is still enjoyed today, especially in Kyoto, Japan.
A plate of sushi with shredded toppings | Source: Pexels
5. Sushi rice is made with sugar.
Sushi rice, used in sushi making, differs from regular white rice as it contains sugar, providing a slightly sweet taste. The sugar enhances the flavors of the fish and other ingredients, preventing the sushi from being bland.
Adding sugar also contributes to a sticky texture ideal for making sushi rolls. Many recipes include about one tablespoon of sugar per cup of sushi rice, meaning around ten tablespoons for 20 sushi rolls.
A chef preparing sushi | Source: Pexels
6. Not eating sushi in one bite is considered bad manners.
It's considered impolite not to consume sushi in one bite, and aside from that, it can also be perceived as disrespectful to the chef who prepared the sushi.
Taking small bites may hinder the enjoyment of the sushi's full potential. The key is to eat the sushi in one bite or, at most, two bites and avoid returning partially eaten pieces to your plate.
A closer look at a sushi variety called nigiri | Source: Pexels
7. Sushi rolls are considered works of art.
Authentic sushi is a carefully crafted masterpiece, where experts select ingredients for their perfect blend of texture, color, and taste. They are artfully sliced and served in disks, inviting customers to admire the intricate presentation.
Beyond its delicious taste, sushi places a strong emphasis on visual aesthetics and textures. These elements combine to make sushi not just a dish but a true piece of culinary art.
A plate of delectable sushi | Source: Pexels
From its fascinating origins and diverse preparations to the health benefits it offers, sushi captivates both the palate and the mind. Whether enjoyed with chopsticks or bare hands, each piece tells a story of artistry and tradition.
So, the next time you savor a piece of sushi, remember that you are not just indulging in a meal but embarking on a culinary journey that unveils the history, health, and joy of savoring life's flavorful moments.
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