sushi plate with assorted sushi rolls and nigiri

Sushi

sushi: the art of making a delicious and beautiful meal

By Akira Sato

Published: 07 Oct 2024

The First Time I Tried Sushi

Growing up in a small Midwestern town, sushi just seemed like something from a faraway land-some magic food only found in big cities. Well, I can recall my first exposure to it in great detail: a nervous but eager trip to the sushi restaurant with my friends. Never knew what I was getting myself into, but somehow I knew it had to be special. The delicate rolls, the fresh fish, the vibrant colors-it was all this new world of flavors and textures. It opened my eyes to the fact that sushi is an art and it really has been a process of discovery ever since.

sushi restaurant interior with people eating

sushi restaurant interior with people eating | Image: Supplied

The Sushi Experience: More than Fish and Rice

Sushi is not about the food but rather about an entire experience. Everything from the selection of the ingredients to the actual cut and presentation is meticulously well thought of in creating this sense of balance in the chosen dishes. It is a symphony of flavors and textures mixed with different aromas targeting all your senses.

Everything from how sushi is even served to you becomes an experience in its own right. You often get it arranged on an artistic plate with wasabi and pickled ginger for companions. There is also sake, a Japanese rice wine that just perfectly complements the delicate tastes of sushi.

The Art of Presentation

One of the fascinating things about sushi is the art involved in it. Each one is sure to make visually appealing and mouthwatering for consumption. From the simplistic beauty of nigiri to the intricate maki roll, there's really an artistic feeling attached with each creation. The colors, shapes, and textures of the ingredients are all put together for a truly mesmerizing experience.

And all that is not for the sake of the show but a kind of homage both to the products and the chefs' skills. It is like saying-this is not mere food that you eat; it's something you relish, and with your senses, too.

close up of sushi arrangement on a plate

close up of sushi arrangement on a plate | Image: Supplied

A Foodie's Tour of Japan

Sushi originated in Southeast Asia, but it is in Japan that it really flowered. Actually, the word 'sushi' refers to the vinegared rice that forms the base of many dishes, and not raw fish as so many people assume. There are various forms of sushi, such as nigiri, maki, sashimi, and temaki, all having different histories and characteristics.

Nigiri: A Close-Up Look

Nigiri is one of the most popular kinds of sushi, consisting of a small mound of vinegared rice and topped with a piece of fish, seafood, or other ingredients. Normally, it serves fish raw, but sometimes it may be grilled, seared, or even marinated. What I find amazing about nigiri is that it is so simple, allowing the freshness of all the ingredients.

Maki Rolls: An Adventure of Taste

Maki rolls are vinegared rice wrapped around a sheet of seaweed called nori. These are rolled and filled with ingredients such as fish, vegetables, and even fruits. The rolls are cut into bite-sized pieces and served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. Indeed, the combination of tastes and flavors could be so incredible in the maki roll, so I enjoy trying all this variety.

assortment of sushi rolls on a plate

assortment of sushi rolls on a plate | Image: Supplied

A Cultural Meal Rather than Just a Meal:

Of course, sushi is more than food; it's an event that celebrates Japan's rich gastronomy. It is a way of life, an art, and yet another bridge to the past. Often the ingredients used in sushi are those carefully selected by farmers and fishermen locally in order to ensure that the food is fresh and sustainable.

Sushi is a metaphor for harmony.

Sushi is one of the most perfect manifestations of the Japanese philosophy of 'wa,' or harmony. The taste, texture, and color all balance in a sushi dish, and again prove this philosophy. Everything from sweet to salty to umami flavors, contrasting soft and chewy textures, and vibrant colors of ingredients come together for a harmonious and satisfying experience.

Sushi: A Food for Anyone

Sushi is for anyone. Be one who has a lot of experience with sushi or none at all, there is a sushi dish out there waiting to be found by you. So, venture out and give it a shot. You may find not only a new cuisine but even an entire world of flavors.

people eating sushi at a sushi bar

people eating sushi at a sushi bar | Image: Supplied

Sushi is not just about the food; it's about the experience.

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