New To Sushi? Try These Beginner Tips

The sushi trend is here to stay. Not only is it good for you, but it is delicious, too (once you develop a taste for it). This time-tested culinary technique offers a countless array of options, so it can be difficult to know where to begin if it's new to you. Below you'll find a few tips that provide an easy introduction to the sensational world of sushi.

Did you realize that not all sushi contains raw seafood? Sushi simply means cooked, vinegared rice topped with other ingredients. Sashimi is the raw stuff. If you're new or unsure, try a few cooked or vegetarian rolls first. Eel (unagi & anago) is always served cooked, usually with a sweet and savory sauce that is delicious. If eel is too exotic, California rolls have avocado, cucumber, and cooked imitation crabmeat (kamabokoor surimi). Squid (ika) or octopus (tako) are often grilled, as is shrimp (ebi). Alternatively, vegetarian rolls like kappa maki (cucumber) are a great introduction to sushi style, and are completely delicious with wasabi and ginger.

Once you gain some traction, move on to sashimi, but start with what you know. Sushi isn’t much different from eating any fish; it's just not cooked.  You’ll see many exotic fish on the menu, but you'll also recognize many staples. If you like grilled salmon, seared tuna, fried calamari, or broiled scallops, you won’t be surprised by the taste or texture of sashimi.

As you continue to increase your repertoire, stick to milder fish. Scallop (hotategai), red snapper (tai), squid (ika), and halibut (ohyo) are particularly mild and great for beginners who are unsure. Tuna (maguro) may appear to have a strong flavor, judging by its rich, dark color, but it’s also a very mild and common in sushi restaurants. Plus, if you've ever had a tuna steak in a restaurant, they are rarely cooked through, so you'll be familiar with the taste and texture.

Ask your waitress or the sushi chef (itamae) for some suggestions. If you see on the menu something called omakase, that usually indicates "chef's choice". If you choose that option, then the itamae will select what he thinks is best that day, and will continue to serve you until you’re full. If you’re brave enough for the omakase, tell the chef you’re new to sushi, and if you have any strong likes or dislikes. Once you fill him in, he'll prepare an expert introduction to sushi just for you!

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This