The Art and Science of Sushi Creation Sushi is a unique combination of art and science. It goes beyond just being a meal; it’s a cultural experience that showcases precision, creativity, and a deep respect for ingredients. Sushi chefs, known as the itamae, spend years...
The Cultural Sexism Inherent in Professional Sushi Making The sushi industry is one dominated by men and always has been, and there is nowhere where this is more apparent than the birthplace of modern sushi, Japan. In the past I published an article on "Washoku," a...
The Seafood Heaven in Tsukiji Many people are wondering why the Tsukiji fish market so popular? And where does all the seafood come from to feed a hungry Japan and the world with sushi? These questions come with a number of answers, and while the obvious one is "from...
Sushi has been a popular item in the west for a few decades now and as with anything that makes its way across cultures, it has readily changed to better match western palates. But unlike noodles and soybeans, sushi has not merely changed to fit our preferences; it...
In what is good news for California Roll eaters, today Japan has formally announced a campaign for certifying Japanese food overseas without Big Brother inspecting the sushi. Initially covered back in December of 2006 in my piece “The sushi police are here to see...
Firstly a warning to my readers, the following entry contains graphic descriptions of what may be considered animal cruelty by some, and may be a bit extreme for some readers. If you do not want to hear stories of the preparation of living sea animals for food, please...
How many times have you wondered whether it is acceptable to eat sushi with your fingers? And how many times have you been told that it isn't? As a matter of etiquette, many cultures eschew eating with one's fingers, which seems to be ingrained particularly deeply in...
Apparently the sushi police are on their way. With the popularity of sushi spreading worldwide, it should be no surprise that everyone and their brother wants to jump on the bandwagon. The problem is that now, it is as easy to find horrible food that is supposed to...
I've had a number of questions about omakase meals in a sushi restaurant and thought to take this time to explain what true omakase is to those unfamiliar with the term, or who just want to know more. Omakase literally means entrust and basically means "chef's...