Sushi
Kura offers a variety of sushi options, including nigiri, maki, and temaki.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Sushi's origins trace back to Southeast Asia where fish was preserved in fermented rice. This preservation technique traveled to Japan, where it evolved into the dish we know today. Early forms of sushi, known as 'nare-zushi,' involved discarding the rice and only consuming the preserved fish. Over time, the rice became a part of the dish, eventually leading to the development of 'haya-zushi,' where rice and fish were consumed together. Edo-style sushi, or 'nigiri-zushi,' emerged in the 19th century, offering a quicker and more convenient way to enjoy sushi.
Sushi is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, representing artistry, precision, and respect for ingredients. It is often associated with special occasions and celebrations.
Etiquette
Proper sushi etiquette involves using chopsticks or your fingers (for nigiri), dipping the fish side of the sushi into soy sauce, and eating the sushi in one or two bites. Avoid rubbing your chopsticks together, as it implies the chopsticks are cheap and splintery.
Seasonality
Sushi emphasizes the use of seasonal ingredients, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful fish. Chefs carefully select their ingredients based on the time of year.
The Sushi Chef (Itamae)
Becoming a sushi chef requires years of rigorous training, mastering knife skills, rice preparation, and fish selection. The itamae is highly respected for their knowledge and artistry.
Presentation
Sushi presentation is considered an art form. The arrangement of the sushi pieces, the colors, and the garnishes are all carefully considered to create a visually appealing and appetizing dish.
Sushi offers a balanced combination of savory, sour, and umami flavors, complemented by textures ranging from soft and tender to firm and crisp. The freshness of the ingredients is paramount.
The core flavor profile comes from the vinegared sushi rice, providing a subtle tang and sweetness. The fish, whether raw or cooked, contributes a variety of flavors depending on the type – salmon offers a rich, buttery flavor, tuna a meaty taste, and white fish a delicate sweetness. Seaweed (nori) adds a briny, umami note, while wasabi provides a sharp, spicy kick. Soy sauce enhances the umami and saltiness, but should be used sparingly to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors of the fish. Ginger (gari) serves as a palate cleanser between different types of sushi.
Ordering
When ordering, consider starting with lighter, milder fish before moving on to richer, fattier varieties. This allows you to fully appreciate the nuances of each type.
Wasabi
Use wasabi sparingly, as it can easily overpower the delicate flavors of the fish. Ideally, the sushi chef has already placed a small amount of wasabi between the fish and the rice.
Soy Sauce
Dip only the fish side of the sushi into soy sauce to avoid the rice becoming soggy. Over-soaking the sushi is considered impolite and diminishes the flavor.
Ginger
Ginger is meant to cleanse the palate between different types of sushi, not to be eaten with the sushi itself. It helps to reset your taste buds so you can fully appreciate the next bite.
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