Nigiris
Selection of nigiris
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.
Nigiri sushi evolved from a method of preserving fish in fermented rice, known as narezushi, which dates back to ancient times. Over centuries, the fermentation time was shortened, and vinegar was added to the rice, leading to the faster and fresher style of sushi enjoyed today. Edomae zushi, the predecessor to modern nigiri, emerged in Edo (modern-day Tokyo) in the 19th century, offering a convenient and flavorful way to consume fresh seafood.
Nigiri sushi is more than just food in Japan; it's an art form, a culinary tradition, and a reflection of the country's deep connection to the ocean. It's often associated with special occasions and fine dining.
Respect for Ingredients
The quality and freshness of the ingredients are paramount. Sushi chefs undergo years of training to master the art of selecting, preparing, and presenting the fish.
Omakase Experience
In many high-end sushi restaurants, customers opt for 'omakase,' which means 'I'll leave it to you.' The chef then selects and prepares the nigiri based on the day's freshest catches and the customer's preferences.
Proper Etiquette
There are specific customs associated with eating nigiri sushi, such as using chopsticks or fingers to pick up the piece, dipping only the fish (not the rice) in soy sauce, and eating the nigiri in one or two bites.
Nigiri sushi offers a delicate balance of savory, umami, and slightly sweet flavors. The taste varies greatly depending on the topping (neta), but the core components provide a unifying profile.
The primary flavors come from the fresh seafood, seasoned sushi rice (shari), and optional accompaniments like wasabi and soy sauce. The rice, prepared with vinegar, sugar, and salt, provides a slightly sweet and tangy base. The seafood offers a range of flavors, from the clean and delicate taste of white fish like sea bream (tai) to the rich and fatty flavor of tuna belly (otoro). Wasabi adds a sharp, pungent kick, while soy sauce enhances the umami notes of the fish and rice.
Eat Immediately
Nigiri is best enjoyed immediately after it's prepared, as the rice and fish flavors are at their peak. The rice can dry out quickly, affecting the texture.
Soy Sauce Usage
Dip only the fish (neta) side of the nigiri in soy sauce to avoid oversaturating the rice and masking the delicate flavors of the fish. Use a small amount.
Wasabi
Use wasabi sparingly. If the chef has already placed wasabi between the fish and rice, taste it first before adding more.
Ginger (Gari)
Pickled ginger (gari) is used as a palate cleanser between different types of nigiri. It helps to refresh your taste buds and prepare you for the next flavor.
Explore additional Japanese dishes and restaurants
Explore JapaneseDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Logroño.
Explore LogroñoLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Spain.
Explore Spain