Sushi Explained

Sushi originated in China and was introduced into Japan in the 7th century. The original idea of preparing the sushi is for preserving fish by fermentation with salt when there were no refrigerators. Around 14th century in Japan, rice vinegar was added to the mixture for better taste. The vinegar increases rice's sourness and also helps to increase rice's life span. Until 18th century, Chef Hanaya Yohei decided to forego the fermentation and serve suchi fresh as present form. Since sushi was easy and quick to make, it became popular among Japanese household in 19th century. The menu has expanded now to include vegetables, an assortment of fish and other healthy ingredients. Today, sushi is a smorgasbord of fresh possibilites.

Myth and Reality

Many people think that sushi is simply raw fish (actually known as sashimi.) Although raw fish is part of many sushi dishes, sushi is really vinegar rice combined with cooked or uncooked fish, vegetables and other nutritious selections. Next time someone tells you they don't eat sushi because it is "raw fish", you might gently explain the difference between sushi and sashimi. They are sure to thank you at your next meal together.

Oceans of possibilities

Fuji Food Products, Inc. offers three of the most popular varieties of sushi. Maki, Nigiri and Temaki. To satisfy contemporary cosmopolitan tastes, we offer sushi with both cooked ingredients and raw fish.

Maki refers to a style of sushi that is rolled to form. A bed of vinegar rice is placed on a sheet of roasted nori (a flavorful seaweed.) Next, slices of seafood and vegetable are placed on the rice bed. A bamboo roller called a "mikisu" is used to create a cylindrical roll that is then sliced into smaller rolls.

Nigiri is hand shaped sushi created by shaping vinegar rice into a block and draping a slice of fish or other toppings over the rice.  One of the most beautiful varieties of sushi, Nigiri is created in pairs that are just the right size for eating in a single bite. The toppings used include raw fish, roe and shellfish, and may also include other cooked toppings like shrimp, eel, and eggs.

Temaki is "hand rolled" wrapped with nori (a flavorful seaweed.) Having Temaki can be fun and exciting.  Eachperson gets to "roll" his/her own sushi, choosing his/her favorite ingredients.  This is a great party offering for it will sure get all your guests rolling!