Introduction to Sushi
Ever wanted to know more about Sushi?
Sushi originated as a means of preserving fish by fermenting it in rice. Many people believe it is Japanese however, it was actually first seen in China in the 2nd Century AD. It wasn’t until the 8th century AD that it reached Japan. Originally this fermented rice was discarded and the fish was consumed, this became a great source of protein and the fish was full of Omega 3 oils.
It was the Japanese who preferred to eat the fish with the rice, this became seisei sushi. This new way of consuming fish was no longer preservation but a new dish in Japanese cuisine.
Sushi has become more and more popular throughout the world, with many different types of sushi being introduced. Sushi is now a worldwide cuisine with sushi bars and fast food sushi restaurants throughout the world.
Nigiri
A ball of rice with a slice of fish (or vegetables) delicately placed on top. Often a little bit of wasabi is placed between the rice and the topping
Futomaki
Futo means large. So Futo Maki are large rolls of rice wrapped around several fillings with nori on the inside and often sesame seeds on the outcies. There are normally 10 pieces in a roll. A common examples is a California roll with crab, cucmber and avocado.
Hosomaki
Hoso means small. So Hosomaki are small rolls of rice wrapped around a single filling, normally 8 pieces are in a portion. A common example is Kapa Maki - cucumber hosomaki
Gunkan
This is an oval, hand-formed clump of sushi rice that has a strip of "nori" wrapped around its perimeter to form a vessel that is filled with some soft, loose or fine-chopped ingredient that requires the confinement of nori
Temaki
A cone like roll with rice and a mixture of ingredients.
Pickled Ginger
Pickled Ginger is used as a palate cleanser.
Wasabi
A ball of rice with a slice of fish (or vegetables) delicately placed on top. Often a little bit of wasabi is placed between the rice and the topping
Nori
Dried seaweed used to wrap around sushi rolls.