This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read my affiliate policy.
Last Updated on January 2, 2024
You’ve wanted to try sushi for a while now, but you’re not sure how to go about it. It can be tough trying something new, especially when it comes to food. There are so many different ways to eat sushi wrong that it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
This step-by-step manual will teach you all you need to know about eating sushi like a pro. From how to order your sushi at a restaurant to the best way to enjoy eating leftover sushi, we’ve got you covered.
For those who have never eaten sushi, it can be a little intimidating. It can be difficult to know where to begin with the variety of sauces and sushi available. We’ve created this informative guide to show you how to eat sushi properly, covering everything from choosing the right kind of sushi to using the right chopsticks to avoiding common mistakes. Let’s get started!
1. Select the Right Type of Sushi
Did you know that Sushi is considered a healthy food for the brain? There are also many different types of sushi from which to pick. However, if you’re a sushi beginner, we recommend starting with something simple, like nigiri sushi. Nigiri sushi is made with a small mound of rice and a slice of fish or seafood. It’s a wonderful option for beginners because it’s simple to eat and has moderate flavors.
2. Use the Correct Chopsticks
Chopsticks are an essential part of the sushi experience, but they can be tricky if you’ve never used them. When holding your chopsticks, make sure that the thicker end is resting in the palm of your hand and that the thinner end is between your thumb and first two fingers. Then, to pick up a piece of sushi, simply slide the chopsticks under the fish and rice and lift it to your mouth.
3. Avoid Common Mistakes
When eating sushi, people frequently make a few mistakes. One mistake is using too much soy sauce. Remember, a little soy sauce goes a long way. You don’t need to douse your sushi in it. Another mistake is adding wasabi to your soy sauce-this will completely change the flavor of the sushi and can be quite overwhelming. Finally, avoid licking your chopsticks-this is considered bad manners in Japanese culture.
4. Know How to Eat Sushi Rolls
Sushi rolls, or makizushi, are one of the most popular types of sushi. They are made by rolling sushi rice and fillings in nori seaweed. To eat a sushi roll, simply pick it up with your chopsticks and bite into it. If the sushi roll is too big to fit in your mouth, you can use your chopsticks to break it into smaller pieces. Make sure to clean your hands and chopsticks with a napkin once you’ve finished eating. It is also polite to say “itadakimasu” before starting to eat and “gochisousama” after you finish eating.
5. Try new things without hesitation.
Sushi comes in a huge variety of flavors. Don’t be afraid to try something new! If you see a sushi roll that looks interesting, go for it! The same goes for trying new sauces or toppings. With so many different flavors to choose from, there’s sure to be something that you’ll love. Perhaps you’ll even find your new favorite sushi roll. So next time you’re at a sushi restaurant, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
6. Eat at the Right Time
The best time to eat sushi is immediately after it’s made. This is when the flavors are at their peak, and the rice is at its most delicious. If you can’t eat your sushi right away, be sure to consume it within a few hours. After that, the quality of the sushi will start to decline. Of course, you can always ask the chef when the best time to eat their sushi is. They’ll be happy to let you know.
7. Store Sushi Properly
If you’re not going to eat your sushi right away, it’s important to store it properly. Ideally, sushi should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help to keep the rice from drying out and prevent bacteria from growing. If you’re planning on eating your sushi within a few hours, you can store it at room temperature.
8. Pair Your Sushi with the Right Drink
Sushi is traditionally served with green tea. Between bites, this helps in palate cleansing and brings out the flavors of the sushi. If you don’t like green tea, white wine or sake are also good choices. Avoid pairing sushi with red wine, as the tannins can interfere with the delicate flavors of the fish.
9. Eating leftover Sushi
If you’re eating leftover sushi, you should make sure that the fish is still fresh. You can do this by checking the color and smell of the fish. If it looks and smells good, then it’s probably still safe to eat. However, if it looks or smells bad, then you should throw it away. After all, you don’t want to risk getting sick from eating bad sushi.
10. Enjoy Your Experience
Eating sushi is about more than just food-it’s an experience. Take your time, savor each bite, and enjoy the company you’re with. Sushi is meant to be enjoyed slowly and deliberately. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have a delicious and enjoyable sushi experience.
Sushi can be a delicious and enjoyable experience when you know how to eat it properly. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your sushi meal like a pro.
It’s time to get out and sample sushi for yourself now that you are familiar with the basics of eating it! Remember to relax and enjoy the experience – sushi is all about taking things slow and enjoying the flavors and textures. And if you’re ever feeling lost or uncertain, just remember our guide, and you can’t go wrong.
So why are you still waiting? Get outside and start eating some of the best sushi the city has to offer!
