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Let's Get to Know the Different Types of Sushi, Don't Get It Wrong!
Briantama Afiq Ashari
Have you ever been confused by a sushi menu? Sometimes people say all sushi is the same.
But actually, there are many different types of sushi. There are rolls, sushi rolls, sushi rolls, and even sushi rolls with unique fillings.
So, there are many different types of sushi. Before ordering at a restaurant, you need to know the different types to avoid mispronounced sushi.
Knowing the different types and their names will help you order with more confidence.
Especially if you enjoy culinary content, you can also explain it to others. You could even recommend various sushi rolls.
Now, let's discuss the different types of sushi one by one.
What is Sushi?
Imagine you're eating at a Japanese restaurant with friends, and then the menu arrives. It lists various types of sushi.
You see a long list of unfamiliar options, with varying names and shapes. That's when you start to realize that each type of sushi has its own unique character.
So, it's not just about rice and fish. To better understand, let's break it down slowly.
Learning about different sushi rolls is fun if you visualize their shapes and flavors.
Basic Understanding of Various Types of Sushi
So, what's the basic definition of sushi? Essentially, sushi is a rice dish seasoned with vinegar, and it comes in a variety of presentations.
So, sushi varieties arise from the way they're served, their shapes, and their toppings.
So, the list of sushi varieties can be long. You'll often encounter many variations when dining at restaurants.
If you learn the different types of sushi and their names, you'll become more familiar with them.
In fact, you can even explain it to your friends. Especially if you enjoy food photography.
Many people create content about various sushi rolls, too. So, this discussion might be helpful for you.
Read Also:Trying Omakase for the First Time? Let's Understand the Concept First to Avoid Misunderstandings!
Main Types of Sushi and Their Names
Source: istockphoto
This part is crucial, as we'll get into the nitty-gritty. Let's take a look at the different types of sushi and their names one by one. Check it out!
1. Nigiri
Nigiri is hand-pressed rice, then topped with toppings. This is one of the most common types of sushi.
Many recognize this type of sushi because of its simple shape.
2. Use it
Gunkan is rice wrapped in seaweed, then topped with soft toppings. It's also on the list of many people's favorite sushi varieties.
3. Maki
Maki is a rolled version. This is where you start to discover the different types of sushi rolls.
Maki are elongated in shape, perfect for beginners learning about the different types of sushi and their names.
4. Temaki
Temaki is cone-shaped and held in your hands. This is also a simple type of sushi and perfect for those who want a casual meal.
5. Inari Sushi
This one is unique, as it's sushi wrapped in sweet tofu skin. The flavor of inari sushi is mild, so many restaurants offer inari sushi for beginners.
Why? Well, because inari sushi doesn't use raw fish as a topping. So, those were the various types of sushi.
Now, you can start to learn about the popular sushi rolls found in restaurants.
Read Also:Curious About Fusion Food? Understand the Simple Explanation to Avoid Mistakes
Popular Types of Sushi Rolls
Now, let's focus on the various types of sushi rolls. These are the types you'll see most often when scrolling through social media. Many people post pictures of sushi rolls because they look beautiful. Here are some examples of different types of sushi rolls:
- California Roll
- Salmon Roll
- Dragon Roll
- Spicy Tuna Roll
When you look at pictures of sushi, you often see these shapes. Many creative restaurants make variations of this type of sushi in various colors.
You just have to choose the one that suits your taste. So, slowly learn about the different types of sushi so that you understand the character of each roll.
Ingredients in Sushi and Misconceptions
Source: istockphoto
Many people assume that all sushi uses raw fish. However, this isn't always the case. Raw fish used in sushi is called sashimi-grade fish.
So, let's repeat, raw fish used as an ingredient in sushi is called sashimi-grade fish.
Once again, raw fish used as sushi ingredients is called sashimi-grade fish which has gone through a special process.
Not all sushi rolls use raw fish. Some use eggs, vegetables, and cooked meat. Therefore, you can enjoy the sushi variety according to your preferences.
Learn Through Sushi Pictures
You can learn a lot from pictures of sushi. By looking at pictures of sushi, you can compare shapes.
If you look at the pictures of sushi one by one, you will quickly memorize the various types of sushi and their names.
The content will really help you remember the characteristics of different types of sushi. Once you understand their shapes, you'll be ready to order without hesitation.
Tips for Choosing Sushi for the First Time
If you are just starting out and are confused about choosing between the various types of sushi, you can start from:
- Inari sushi if you like a light taste.
- Maki from the category of various sushi rolls if you like a safe style.
- Nigiri if you want to try the real experience.
Learn slowly. Enjoy the atmosphere. Don't rush. The goal is to understand the various types of sushi at a leisurely pace.
FAQ About Various Types of Sushi
1. Why are there so many types of sushi?
Because sushi originated in various regions of Japan, each type has its own unique characteristics, from the way it's rolled to the toppings to the presentation.
2. What is the difference between nigiri and maki?
Nigiri is sushi with rice shaped by hand, then topped with things like salmon or tuna.Makiis sushi that is rolled using nori (seaweed), then cut into several pieces.
3. Does all sushi use raw fish?
No, some types of sushi use cooked fish, chicken, egg, and even vegetables. Common examples include tamago (egg), ebi tempura rolls, and chicken katsu rolls.
4. How to choose sushi that is suitable for beginners?
Start with mild, familiar flavors like tamago sushi, kappa maki (cucumber), or salmon nigiri. Once you're comfortable, try stronger flavors like tuna, eel (unagi), or sashimi-style.
Conclusion
Each type of sushi has its own uniqueness from the classic nigiri and the popular maki to the sweet and light inari.
Understanding the different kinds of sushi not only makes your dining experience more enjoyable but also deepens your knowledge of Japanese culinary culture.
For F&B business owners, this understanding is essential to create menus that are relevant and appealing to customers.
With well-organized menus, presentation, and service, your restaurant can offer a more memorable dining experience.
To keep your restaurant operations running efficiently — from orders and inventory to sales reports — manage everything with ESB’s digital ecosystem.
Contact Team ESB today and transform the way you manage your culinary business into a more modern and professional operation!
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