If you’ve never had the pleasure of trying sushi before, you might feel a bit overwhelmed at the idea of diving into this Japanese delicacy. But fear not! Sushi is an incredibly diverse and customizable experience that caters to a wide range of palates. This beginner’s guide aims to help you navigate the world of sushi, offering suggestions for what to try on your very first outing.
Understanding the Basics: Types of Sushi
First things first, it’s good to know the basic types of sushi:
Nigiri: A small mound of rice topped with a slice of raw fish or seafood.
Sashimi: Thin slices of raw fish, served without rice.
Maki: A roll of rice, fish, and vegetables wrapped in seaweed.
Temaki: Similar to Maki, but shaped like a cone.
Sushi Burrito: A modern twist, this is essentially a larger, burrito-sized roll.
Where to Start: Sushi for Beginners
Table of Contents
1. California Roll
This is perhaps the most beginner-friendly option. A California roll typically contains cooked crab meat (or imitation crab), avocado, and cucumber. It’s an excellent entry point because it doesn’t include any raw fish.
2. Tuna Roll
If you’re ready to try raw fish but want to start with something familiar, a simple tuna roll might be a good choice. Tuna is less “fishy” than some other options and offers a clean, meaty taste.
3. Eel (Unagi) Nigiri
Eel in sushi is cooked and usually comes with a sweet, savory glaze. If the idea of raw fish is still a bit too intimidating, this could be a good way to ease into the experience.
4. Tempura Roll
Another cooked option, this roll includes tempura-fried vegetables or shrimp. It’s crunchy and often comes with a dipping sauce.
5. Philadelphia Roll
This roll includes smoked salmon, avocado, and cream cheese, making it reminiscent of a bagel with lox and thus familiar to many Western palates.
6. Cucumber or Avocado Roll
If you’re vegetarian or not quite ready for raw fish, these rolls offer a refreshing and safe introduction to sushi.
Sushi Etiquette and Tips
Use Chopsticks or Your Hands: Both are acceptable when eating sushi.
Dip Fish-side Down: If you’re dipping your sushi in soy sauce, dip the fish side rather than the rice side to prevent it from falling apart.
Don’t Overdo the Wasabi and Soy Sauce: The idea is to complement the flavors, not overwhelm them.
Eat in One Bite if Possible: Sushi is designed to be a one- or two-bite food to enjoy the combination of flavors.
Side Notes: What to Drink?
Green Tea: Cleanses the palate and aids in digestion.
Sake: A traditional Japanese rice wine that pairs well with sushi.
Water: When in doubt, water is always a good option to let the flavors of the sushi shine.
Entering the world of sushi is like embarking on a culinary adventure. From cooked to raw, from simple to complex, there’s something for everyone. If you’re new to sushi, starting with more familiar flavors and textures can make the experience less intimidating. As you become more comfortable, you can venture into more exotic territory. So go ahead, take that first bite and begin your journey into the delicious world of sushi!
https://sushiincorporated.com/ is a vibrant restaurant that offers what is considered the best sushi in St Pete. Opening its doors in 2013 and becoming a local staple by offering live music, traditional hand-rolled sushi and a friendly atmosphere, our guests always have a top notch experience. Customers love our award-winning, fresh and creative Sushi rolls, Nigiri, and Sashimi. With a larger selection of tempura, non-Sushi, and teriyaki options, we can accommodate every taste.
