Sushi is a popular Japanese dish that has become a global phenomenon. It’s a delicacy that comes in many forms and flavors, but it can be intimidating to eat if you’re not familiar with sushi etiquette. To avoid any faux pas and to fully enjoy your sushi experience, it’s important to learn how to eat sushi correctly. In this guide, we will take you through the steps on how to eat sushi like a pro.
To begin, it’s important to understand the various types of sushi. Sushi comes in different styles, such as nigiri, sashimi, and maki. Nigiri is a piece of raw fish or seafood placed on top of a small ball of rice. Sashimi is thin slices of raw fish served without rice, while maki is sushi rolls made by wrapping rice and fillings in nori seaweed. Knowing the different styles of sushi can help you navigate the sushi menu and choose the right dish for you.
When eating sushi, it’s important to use chopsticks if you’re comfortable with them. However, if you’re not proficient in using chopsticks, you can ask for a fork or use your hands. Before you start eating, it’s also important to note that sushi should be dipped in soy sauce fish-side down to avoid over-saturating the rice. Additionally, it’s best to use a small amount of wasabi in soy sauce instead of directly on top of the sushi.
To eat nigiri, you should pick up the sushi with your chopsticks and dip the fish side down into the soy sauce. Place the entire sushi in your mouth and eat it in one bite. Sashimi should also be picked up with chopsticks and dipped in soy sauce before eating. However, sashimi is usually eaten by itself and not paired with rice.
Maki sushi can be eaten in two ways: with chopsticks or by hand. If you choose to eat it with chopsticks, pick up the sushi roll and dip it in soy sauce before taking a bite. If you prefer to eat it by hand, you can pick up the sushi roll and dip it in soy sauce before eating. It’s important to remember not to bite into the middle of the sushi roll as this can cause it to fall apart. Instead, take small bites from one end of the roll to the other.
In conclusion, eating sushi correctly requires knowledge of the different types of sushi and proper sushi etiquette. By using chopsticks, dipping the sushi fish-side down, and avoiding biting into the middle of the sushi roll, you can fully enjoy your sushi experience. With these tips, you’ll be able to impress your friends and colleagues at your next sushi outing.