It’s hard to imagine a time when sushi wasn’t readily available for consumption. As one of the most popular food items in the United States, this Japanese delicacy is available at restaurants and grocery stores and is considered a chic and sophisticated dining experience. And, like many dishes that have found themselves woven into our collective consciousness, there’s an interesting history attached to it. Today, we’ll be looking at the delicious history and modern evolution of sushi, a dish that we just can’t get enough of.
Humble Beginnings
It’s been remarked before that necessity is the mother of all invention. And when it comes to sushi, this is certainly the case. Sushi didn’t begin as a delicacy but rather as a means of preservation. In the 2nd century BC, fish was wrapped in fermented rice as a means of keeping it fresh. As Japan became more modernized in the 19th century, chefs began to make bite-sized versions of this dish, and sushi has been a culinary staple of Japan ever since.
Americanization and Fusion
Sushi first began to gain popularity in the United States during the 1960s. As with many imported dishes, American chefs found a way to add their own take on the culinary staple. One of the most well-known of these is what’s known as the California roll, which substitutes tuna with avocado.
Display & Presentation
In the traditional methods of presentation, sushi is kept rather simple. This allows patrons to appreciate each ingredient and the craftsmanship that’s involved with each offering. Many sushi chefs have opted to take a renewed focus on presentation and now take a considerable amount of time to craft displays that are lavish and thoroughly detailed.
Ecologically Friendly
One of the biggest shifts that many industries have taken in recent years has been related to the protection of the environment. The sushi industry is certainly no exception. Many of the ingredients are more environmentally friendly than ever, and most are free of the additives that are associated with many GMOs.
Now that you’ve gained a better understanding of how sushi has evolved through the years, isn’t it time to dig in and enjoy it? Well, if you live in the Sarasota area and need to get your fill, come and visit us at Tsunami Sushi. You’ll find authentic Japanese cuisine served up in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We’re located at 100 Central Avenue, Suite 1022, in Sarasota, and you can call us for reservations at 941-366-1033.