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Thursday 13 December 2012

Ever Evolving Sushi

Ever Evolving Sushi

Here are some interesting things to know about Sushi


A common misconception is that the popular dish originated in Japan however, the original type of sushi, known today as nare-sushi, was first developed in Southeast Asia and then spread to China before introduction to Japan around 1330 A.D. Since its debut in Asia, sushi has transformed in shape, size and content. Contemporary Japanese sushi has little resemblance to the traditional dish

The requirements for a good Sushi Chef are extensive:

   Asian and/or Japanese cuisine
   How to make sushi rice
   How to handle knives
   Japanese seasonal ingredients
   Japanese sushi sauces
   Fish preparation
   How to make rolls
   How to slice, and present sashimi in its various forms (rolls, temaki, nigiri, sashimi, futomaki, etc.), including choosing  ingredients, designing, and plating presentation

Other culinary strengths you’ll use in your role as a sushi chef:
   Innovative presentation
   Sushi station hygiene and sanitation
   Ability to take direction
   Ability to interact positively with the public
   Excellent communication and organizational skills
   Ability to work in a team environment
   Flexibility to work other kitchen stations like line cook or pantry chef
   Creativity to assist with menu creation.

ST_MissionFeverRoll
Mission Fever Roll-Sushi Te-Mission BC

So now we know a bit about the roots of sushi, and also what it takes to make great sushi, but what about the creativity?

Obviously sushi has mutated (in a good way) from its roots, but what exactly are the influences that allow this to happen?

One element would be ethnicity, sushi styles grew and changed as it was adopted by newer/different cultures, and the same is true today. Look at any sushi menu and you will regional specialties, and if those specialties are appealing enough they transcend borders. My case in point would the “California Roll” which tastes great, and is vegetarian so it’s an excellent start for the newbie sushi lover.

Look in my backyard we have “BC Roll”, or down my street “Mission Fever Roll”, and many more I’m sure. I even remember reading about places (Sushi Iwa comes to mind) where they let customers design a roll, and if it becomes popular enough it get’s to be on the regular menu. This is what will keep sushi ever evolving, so Enjoy!

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