When you think of Japan, you immediately think of sushi. While this cuisine was thought to be almost exclusively popular in Asian countries, the delicacy has now made its way into mainstream culture. It is revered among people of all cultures.
At first, the thought of eating raw fish might sound a bit icky, but once you’ve tasted it, you’ll find out just how much of a tasteful affair it is. A food cherished by the Japanese is now a very sought-after cuisine across the globe as a mind-boggling experience and food rich in vitamins, carbohydrates, omega acids, and protein.
Let’s look at the different kinds of sushi, what we mean when we say sushi platters, and where you can find the best sushi catering services.
The Different Types Of Sushi
Over the years, there have been several developments in the local sushi cuisine. Most of them adapted to the westernization of the food, but initially there are 6 authentic types of sushi that you will find in sushi platters:
- Nigiri: This is probably the most popular form of sushi and what comes to mind when you think about the word “sushi.” It consists of a slice of raw fish on top of sushi rice made into a perfect bite size.
- Maki: This consists of the filling, the fish, and the rice wrapped in a seaweed sheet.
- Temaki: Following the same ingredient list as a Maki or an Uramaki, the sushi is wrapped to look like a cone instead of the typical cylindrical shape.
- Uramaki is very similar to Maki, but the only difference is that instead of the rice inside the seaweed wrap, it is outside it.
- Sashimi: Technically, this is not sushi since there’s an absence of rice, but it’s often served with a sushi platter or on a sushi tray. Sashimis are typically shellfish or fresh slices of fish served raw.
- Inari: This consists of a tofu bean pouch fried and stuffed with sushi rice. Typically it is served with different kinds of toppings.
Types of Sushi Rolls
As mentioned before, the westernization of sushi has paved the way for sushi rolls to be customized according to different taste preferences or to make it look palatable. Here are some of the famous sushi rolls you’ll find:
- Spider Roll: This sushi roll comes with soft shell crabs that are deep fried and other vegetables like cucumbers and lettuce. It can also have avocado or mayo as fillings.
- California Roll: It resembles Uramaki sushi, but the fillings can differ. The most popular ones are cucumber, avocado, and imitation crab meat.
- Tempura Roll: It looks like Uramaki sushi, but the filling is of tempura shrimp and other vegetables.
- Dragon Roll: They resemble tempura rolls with fried shrimp, avocado, and cucumber. The outside is usually coated with sesame seeds, unagi sauce, and spicy mayonnaise.
- Spicy Tuna Roll: This is similar to a California roll, but instead of the variety of fillings, it consists of spicy mayo and tuna.
What’s A Sushi Platter?
As you might have guessed, sushi platters come with different kinds of sushi arranged on a plate or a tray; hence it is also called sushi trays. Sushi platters can be as large or small as desired, depending on how many mouths there are to feed.
On a sushi platter, you’ll find different toppings and sauces to eat with the sushi. The most common is wasabi and soy sauce. Depending on what the restaurant offers, you’ll get different sushi sides with the platter. If you are going for sushi catering services, you might want to check with the caterers what they offer on a sushi tray or platter.
Types Of Sushi Sides:
- Edamame: It’s a very popular side dish that comes with most Asian cuisines, sushi being one of the top dishes.
- Miso: If you prefer pairing your sushi with soup, miso soups are a great addition which some sushi restaurants or caterers will offer as part of the package.
- Seaweed salad: This refreshing side dish is great as a palate cleanser when you’re drying different kinds of sushi.
- Tempura: It can be seafood or vegetables deep-fried into a golden crunch.
What Can You Expect From A Sushi Catering Service?
In most places, caterers will offer different kinds of sushi platters and sushi tray packages. Some even have vegan and vegetarian options if that’s what you prefer. Depending on your service, you can ask for a sushi station or a simple platter.
Sushi stations are most popular if you’re looking for sushi catering for a big event. As the name suggests, it’s a customized display with all kinds of sushi and sides arranged to look visually appealing. And the taste will indeed have guests coming in for more!
In Conclusion:
Trying sushi for the first time can be daunting, but trying something new is always fun. The only thing you need to consider is to make sure you’re sourcing sushi catering services or your sushi platters come from high-quality chefs and restaurants. This way, you can avoid having an upset stomach after eating unsanitary raw fish.
If the idea of sushi interests you, get yourself a sushi platter and tantalize your tastebuds with the unique taste of sushi.
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