Eating sushi is an art form in Japanese cuisine, and here are some guidelines on the correct way to enjoy sushi:
- Use your hands: While some sushi purists may use chopsticks, it is perfectly acceptable to eat sushi with your hands. Pick up the sushi piece with your fingers, ensuring a gentle grip.
- Dip lightly: If desired, you can dip the fish part (not the rice) of the sushi into a small amount of soy sauce. Avoid soaking the rice, as it can overpower the delicate flavors.
- Use wasabi sparingly: A small amount of wasabi is already placed by the chef between the fish and rice. If you like additional heat, you can add a bit of wasabi to the soy sauce and mix it.
- Eat in one bite: Ideally, you should consume each sushi piece in a single bite. This ensures that you experience the flavors and textures as intended by the sushi chef.
- Savor the balance: Pay attention to the combination of flavors in each sushi piece. The balance of fish, rice, and any additional ingredients should be appreciated.
- Avoid excessive soy sauce: It’s important not to overwhelm the flavors of the sushi by using excessive soy sauce. A small amount is sufficient to complement the taste without overpowering it.
- Eat in the recommended order: When eating a variety of sushi pieces, it’s generally recommended to start with lighter and milder flavors and progress to stronger and richer flavors.
- Enjoy ginger between bites: Pickled ginger (gari) is often served alongside sushi to cleanse the palate. It is typically eaten between different sushi pieces to refresh the taste buds.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and personal preferences may vary. The most important aspect is to enjoy the flavors and textures of sushi while respecting the traditions and craftsmanship behind this iconic Japanese dish.
On a personal level, we’re guilty sometimes of excessive soy sauce, but do like ginger in between different sushi pieces. What’s your preference and experience like when it comes to sushi? Let us know in the comments!
