Sushi – is not just food, but a whole cultural tradition going back centuries. Although they are associated with Japan today, their roots lead to China, where as early as the 2nd century BC fermented fish were stored in boiled rice for preservation. The Japanese borrowed this practice, but improved it by creating sushi in its modern form –, not just a means of preserving fish, but a delicacy that emphasizes the freshness of products.The first modern-like sushi appeared in the Edo period (XVII–XIX century), when Edo-mae-zushi ( ⁇ ) became a popular street fast food. These were nigiri – rice dumplings with fish that were cooked quickly.Over time, sushi evolved, different variations of them appeared, but all of them preserved the main principle of – balance between rice, seafood and spices.
What are rolls?
Rolls – is a modern adaptation of sushi that was born outside of Japan. They are known in traditional Japanese cuisine as makizushi ( ⁇ ) – «twisted sushi», but it was in the US and Europe that they were turned into a separate category of dishes with their own rules and cooking techniques.
If you are looking for sushi, and rolls that combine Japanese quality and a modern approach, you should visit Ninja Sushi restaurants. Here you know the perfect balance of flavors, so every roll or nigiri – is not just a dish, but a real gastronomic experience.
In classic Japanese rolls, rice and filling are wrapped in nori algae, and they themselves are small and minimalistic. But Europeans and Americans rethought the idea by making rolls:
larger – in Asia are compact rolls, and in the West they have become much more nutritious;
cream cheese, avocado, mango, smoked fish, mayonnaise sauces were added more diverse –;
brighter – instead of traditional nori on the outside, they began to use rice, sesame or even fry rolls in batter (tempura).
One of the most famous examples of – «California», created by Japanese chef Ichiro Mashito in the 1970s in Los Angeles. Since the Americans did not like nori, he wrapped it inside and sprinkled tobiko caviar on top.
Classic sushi vs. European roles: what to choose?
Traditional Japanese sushi – is the art of minimalism: fresh fish, rice, vinegar, algae. Nothing extra. The main emphasis of – is on product quality. That is why in Japan sushi is eaten in small portions, enjoying every piece.
Western rolls – is an experimental approach: cream cheese, roasting, additional sauces that add brightness to the taste. They are more filling, often served with a lot of additions.
Interesting facts about sushi and rolls
In Japan, sushi masters study up to 10 years before getting the right to cook sushi in a restaurant on their own. Much of the training is devoted to proper cooking and rice formation.
Sushi without fish – is also a traditional dish! For example, sitare-mae-zushi ( ⁇ ) – sushi with shiitake mushrooms, and inari-zushi ( ⁇ ) – with pickled tofu.
Rolls appeared in Japan as early as the 18th century, but their appearance was different – they were very simple, without complex fillings and sauces.
One of the most expensive types of sushi – otoro nigiri, made from the fattest part of tuna. Its cost can reach hundreds of dollars per serving.
In traditional sushi bars in Japan, serve wasabi separately – bad tone. The chef himself adds exactly as much of it as is needed for a perfect balance of taste.
If you want to experience real Japanese culture, pay attention to nigiri, gunkan, sashimi. They reflect the traditional approach to land.
If you want more filling and rich flavors, choose Philadelphia, California, tempura rolls. This is an ideal option for company and informal meetings.
And the main thing is –, it doesn't matter what you choose: classic sushi or modern rolls. The main thing is that they are of high quality and fresh.
