How to Eat Sushi Properly
Eating sushi is a pleasure in itself, but a few simple rules can help you enjoy the experience even more. Here are practical tips that will turn you into a sushi connoisseur.
Using Chopsticks
- Hold chopsticks about one-third from the tip
- Move only the top chopstick — the bottom one stays still
- Nigiri can be eaten with your hands — it's the traditional way!
- Don't rub wooden chopsticks together — it implies poor quality
Soy Sauce — Less Is More
The most common mistake when eating sushi:
- Dip the fish side into soy sauce, not the rice
- Use soy sauce sparingly — it shouldn't overpower the taste
- Dip sashimi lightly — too much sauce hides the fish flavor
Wasabi
- Traditionally, wasabi is placed directly on the fish, not mixed into soy sauce
- Mixing wasabi into soy sauce is common but not traditional
- Try a small amount — wasabi's flavor is intense but fades quickly
Ginger — A Palate Cleanser
Pickled ginger (gari) is not meant to be eaten with sushi! Its purpose is to cleanse your palate between different sushi pieces. Eat a slice of ginger before trying a new variety.
Practical Tips
- Eat nigiri in one bite — it's meant to be a single mouthful
- Start with lighter fish and move toward stronger flavors
- Maki rolls are also meant to be eaten in one bite
- Eat sushi in the order served — the chef serves them in a specific sequence for a reason
Now you know how to enjoy sushi properly! Order yourself a delicious sushi set and practice your new knowledge.
