If you’re someone who partakes in and enjoys Asian cuisine, you might have heard the term “sashimi” used in relation to either sushi or raw fish. But, how much do you know about it? Sure, you may already be familiar with the term and maybe even a fan of the delicacy, but for those who are curious, we’re here to give you a crash course. By the time you’re reading up on all these tasty tidbits of information, you’ll be ordering like a pro!
Simple Definition
Sashimi is a Japanese delicacy. While it’s usually fish, sliced up and served raw, any protein can be prepared in this way, in particular beef and pork. (Although finding a Japanese restraint that serves these alternatives is rather rare.) A popular misconception has sashimi and sushi commonly being confused with one another, so allow us to simplify the terms. While sashimi is a piece of raw fish that’s sliced. Sushi is simply sashimi accompanied by vinegared rice.
Humble Beginnings
Like many customs in Japan, sashimi can be traced back to the country’s Feudal era, and the dish made its first appearance in the 14th century. The term sashimi means “pierced body.” While a more accurate term for the preparation would be kirimi, which means “cut bod”, it is believed that the term sashimi was chosen to help separate it from the term “kiri” which is considered foul language. Sashimi became wildly popular during the 17th century, and the arrival of soy sauce only bolstered the dish’s reputation.
Proper Mealtime Etiquette
You wouldn’t sneeze on the salad at a salad bar, would you? Of course not. The consumption of sashimi requires some basic rules. Most Japanese citizens are introduced to the dish at a young age, whereas westerners usually discover it later in life. Because it’s an acquired taste for many, condiments are used with the protein. (Soy sauce and wasabi are among the most popular ones.) A fish speared in the head and tail is the tradition that is used to identify the item being served.
Commonly, you’ll find sashimi served alongside radish and seaweed, and traditional Japanese sashimi is purely seafood. Any garnish served alongside sashimi is meant to be eaten, and it is considered impolite to eat sashimi with your hands. Sashimi is always eaten with chopsticks, as opposed to sushi which can be eaten with either. It’s also important to remember that you should always try to eat whatever’s on your chopsticks in one bite. So open wide!
Enjoying Sashimi at Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi
Now that you have a better understanding of some of the traditions surrounding sashimi, you can come down to Tsunami Sushi in Sarasota and sample the very best authentic Japanese cuisine. For reservations, a menu, and more information about what we serve and the traditions behind them, visit us online at https://www.tsunami-sarasota.com/ or stop into our restaurant located at 100 Central Avenue, Suite 1022!