Sushi Through Time: From Origins to Today

Have you had Sushi? You know where did it originated? Don’t know where you could taste? Let’s find out?

Sushi is more than just a dish; it’s an art form that captures the essence of simplicity, tradition, and innovation on a single plate. Whether you're a seasoned sushi lover or a curious newcomer, each bite invites you on a journey through Japan’s rich culinary heritage, reimagined in every roll and slice. From its surprising origins in Southeast Asia to its rise as a global phenomenon, sushi has captivated palates around the world. Dive into this blog to explore the interesting facts, a bit of my personal experience and find out where to enjoy the best sushi in India. With each fact and review, you’ll uncover the secrets behind this iconic dish and why it’s more than what meets the eye.

"Sushi is not just food; it's an art form. Each piece is a perfect balance of flavors and  textures, a testament to the chef's skill and dedication."

             - Chef Jiro Ono, renowned Sushi Chef.

I certainly agree with this quote and do believe that  Sushi is a true reflection of the careful workmanship that goes into its preparation, with its exquisite presentation and balanced flavor combinations. It is an immersive event that involves all of the senses, not just food.

 FACTS ABOUT SUSHI THAT YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW

#1 Traditionally Sushi was eaten with hands.

Although today people prefer eating Sushi with chopsticks over hands. But, in traditional days Sushi was eaten with hands. “There is beauty in the process of the sushi experience where it’s made by hands, served by hands, and eaten by hands, so go ahead and use your hands,” says renowned sushi Chef Masaharu Morimoto

#2 Initially, sushi rice wasn’t eaten.

In the early days of sushi making, the rice used consisted of sour, fermenting rice that wrapped around aged fish – only to help in creating umami, a distinct sour taste. After the fermentation finished, the rice was thrown out and only the fish was eaten. The rice also served as a way to preserve fish and to keep the flies away.

#3 Nigiri in one shot

While eating nigiri, it is traditionally eaten whole on the first try.

#4 Nigiri is meant to be eaten upside down.

It is suggested that Nigiri (a slice of fish on top of rice) be eaten upside down – for the best sushi dining experience.

#5 June 18th, mark the date!

Did you know,18th June is celebrated as the International Sushi Day.

BEST PLACES TO HAVE SUSHI IN INDIA

1# Wasabi by Morimoto

This iconic institution  located at Maan Singh Rd, near Khan Market, India Gate, New Delhi, Delhi that once had a spot in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. Its menu was developed by the legendary Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. No wonder that Wasabi remains one of the best places in the country to go out for a sushi meal. The Spicy Yaki Shiitake, Nego Toro Maki sushi rolls, and Tekka Maki come highly recommended.

2# Kofuku

Kofuku is located in Ansal Plaza Mall, Khel Gaon, Delhi  and everything about it screams authentic Japanese! From the little wooden cabins that have Japanese paintings and Japanese furnishings, this place has a perfect atmosphere if you wanna enjoy your sushi. Some of the best-loved dishes you can try here are Oh My God Sushi, Salmon Sushi & Sashimi Platter

3# Pa Pa Ya

If our love for sushi is like a long-distance relationship, Pa Pa Ya at Worldmark Gurugram is the invention of the phone. It’s an extremely significant bridge between you and sushi, and we couldn’t be more thankful for it! Some of their immensely tasteful sushi rolls you need to try are Crispy Vegetable Maki With Dehydrated Spinach Sushi, Spicy Prawns Tempura Sushi Roll, Spicy Avocado Sushi Roll, Carbon Sushi Roll, and more. 

4# Guppy - 28, Main Market, Lodhi Colony   

Guppy in Lodhi Colony, New Delhi is one of the best places in the town for the Japanese. A super colourful and happy anime-themed restaurant, Guppy is an enjoyable place to really savour your sushi, while their dishes are a gastronomical experience in themselves. Some of the dishes you must try on your visit to Guppy are Aburi Salmon Sushi Roll, Non-Veg Sushi Platter, Chashu Ramen, Asparagus Tempura Sushi Roll, and more!

5# Kaze, Bangalore

Offering you gorgeous views of the Garden City, this rooftop Kaze retro bar has an outstanding sushi menu that consists of five types of sashimi, a 12-piece sashimi platter, seventeen types of nigiri sushi, an 8-piece nigiri platter, a range of hosomaki (thin rolled sushi) and twelve types of futomaki (thick rolled sushi).

MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

I first tasted this mouth watering dish during my college days. I still clearly recall my timid order of nigiri on my first visit to a sushi establishment. The combination of the chilled, soft fish, slightly vinegared rice with soya sauce was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Since then, sushi has developed as one of my comfort dish, a party staple, and an introduction to Japanese culture.

CONCLUSION

In summary, sushi is a culinary tradition that symbolizes simplicity, craftsmanship, and cultural history; it is more than just a dish. Every mouthful narrates a tale, spanning from the history of sushi-making to the most recent inventions made by chefs across the globe. Regardless of your level of experience with sushi, there's always something new to learn.