Member-only story

The Ultimate Guide to Sushi and Sake

Ken Follett

·2.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Guide To Sushi And Sake (Japan Travel Guide By Approach Guides)

6 min read

528 View Claps

61 Respond

Save

Listen

Sushi and sake are two of the most iconic culinary experiences that Japan has to offer. Sushi, with its delicate precision and exquisite flavors, is a testament to the Japanese reverence for fresh, seasonal ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship. Sake, the national alcoholic beverage of Japan, is a complex and nuanced drink that pairs perfectly with sushi and other Japanese dishes.

In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the world of sushi and sake. We will explore the different types of sushi and sake, the traditional techniques used to make them, and the perfect pairings of sake to complement each dish. We will also provide you with tips on how to order sushi and sake in a Japanese restaurant, so that you can fully enjoy this unique culinary experience.

Sushi is a Japanese dish that consists of vinegared rice that is combined with other ingredients, such as raw fish, seafood, vegetables, or eggs. The word "sushi" comes from the Japanese word "sushi," which means "sour rice." The sourness of the rice comes from the vinegar that is used to season it.

Guide to Sushi and Sake (Japan Travel Guide by Approach Guides)

by Approach Guides

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	988 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	41 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Sushi is typically served in bite-sized pieces, and it can be eaten with your hands or with chopsticks. It is often served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

There are many different types of sushi, but the most common types include:

Nigiri sushi: This is the most basic type of sushi. It consists of a small ball of rice that is topped with a slice of raw fish or seafood.
Maki sushi: This type of sushi is made with a sheet of seaweed that is rolled around a filling of rice, raw fish, seafood, and vegetables.
Temaki sushi: This type of sushi is made with a cone-shaped sheet of seaweed that is filled with rice, raw fish, seafood, and vegetables.
Inari sushi: This type of sushi is made with a fried tofu pouch that is filled with rice.

Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage that is made from fermented rice. The word "sake" comes from the Japanese word "sake," which means "alcohol." Sake is typically served warm or at room temperature, and it has a range of flavors from dry to sweet.

Sake is made with a variety of different rice varieties, and the type of rice used will affect the flavor of the sake. The sake-making process is complex and time-consuming, and it can take up to two months to complete.

There are many different types of sake, but the most common types include:

Junmai sake: This type of sake is made with 100% rice, and it has a full-bodied flavor.
Ginjo sake: This type of sake is made with rice that has been polished to remove the outer layers, and it has a delicate and fragrant flavor.
Daiginjo sake: This type of sake is made with rice that has been polished to remove more than 50% of the outer layers, and it has a very delicate and complex flavor.

Sushi and sake are a perfect pairing. The delicate flavors of sushi are complemented by the complex and nuanced flavors of sake. The acidity of the sushi rice helps to cut through the sweetness of the sake, and the umami of the sushi fillings pairs well with the umami of the sake.

There are many different ways to pair sushi and sake. Some general guidelines include:

Light and delicate sushi: Pair with light and delicate sake, such as junmai sake or ginjo sake.
Rich and fatty sushi: Pair with rich and full-bodied sake, such as daiginjo sake or aged sake.
Spicy sushi: Pair with spicy sake, such as karakuchi sake or tokkuri sake.
Sweet sushi: Pair with sweet sake, such as amakuchi sake or nigori sake.

Ordering sushi and sake in a Japanese restaurant can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Start with a light appetizer: A small appetizer, such as edamame or miso soup, can help to prepare your palate for the flavors of sushi and sake.
Order a variety of sushi: Don't be afraid to try different types of sushi. This will give you a chance to experience the wide range of flavors and textures that sushi has to offer.
Start with a light sake: If you are new to sake, start with a light and delicate sake, such as junmai sake or ginjo sake. This will give you a chance to appreciate the subtle flavors of sake.
Don't be afraid to ask questions: If you are unsure about anything, don't be afraid to ask your server for help. They will be happy to recommend dishes and sake that will suit your taste.

Sushi and sake are two of the most iconic culinary experiences that Japan has to offer. With its delicate flavors, exquisite craftsmanship, and perfect pairing with sake, sushi is a true work of art. Sake, with its complex and nuanced flavors, is the perfect complement to sushi and other Japanese dishes.

We encourage you to explore the world of sushi and sake. With its endless variety of flavors and textures, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So next time you are in a Japanese restaurant, don't be afraid to order sushi and sake. We promise you won't be disappointed.

Guide to Sushi and Sake (Japan Travel Guide by Approach Guides)

by Approach Guides

4 out of 5