Eating sushi tends to look intimidating, especially if you’re a beginner. Don’t let nerves keep you from enjoying delicious sushi, though! Eating sushi is actually a lot easier than it looks and with a little practice, you’ll be an expert in no time. Let’s go over some of the sushi basics you’ll need to know to feel confident eating sushi in public.

HOW IS SUSHI PRESENTED?

If you’ve never ordered sushi before, you might be confused when you first get your plate. Sushi is traditionally served with chopsticks. If you don’t know how to use chopsticks, that’s okay! Feel free to use your hands or a fork to pick up your sushi. The plate should consist of your sushi, a chunk of wasabi, and some sliced pickled ginger. Soy sauce is usually available on the side in a bottle or packets.

The wasabi adds a nice kick of heat to the sushi, but it’s not for everyone. Soy sauce is salty and can be used to mix a bit of wasabi for a strong yet mild flavor. Sliced ginger is served as a palate cleanser. Take a piece of pickled ginger after each roll to get rid of any remaining aftertaste before you move on to the next piece.

SUSHI VS SASHIMI

Sushi and sashimi are similar but have key differences. Beginner sushi lovers tend to enjoy a sushi roll more than sashimi. That’s because sashimi consists only of raw fish and vinegar rice. If you don’t have a history of eating raw fish, it’s easy to be turned off from giving it a shot.

Sushi rolls feature seaweed, rice, and a variety of other fillings to create a sushi roll. Sushi is available with cooked fish too! Start with a roll that has cooked ingredients until you’re ready to branch out to something more adventurous with raw fish.

SUSHI EATING ETIQUETTE

To eat your sushi, start by grabbing one piece with your chopsticks, fingers, or fork. Rub a bit of wasabi on the sushi or add a dash of soy sauce as desired. Eat the entire piece in one bite if it’s sashimi or authentic Japanese sushi. American sushi rolls tend to be bigger, so taking a piece in two bites is acceptable.

Take your time to chew the sushi and taste each flavor while you eat. When you’re finished, take a drink and then eat a slice of pickled ginger to cleanse your palate. Repeat this process until you’ve had your fill!

Want to Try Sushi & Wine Options!? Go To Go Fish!