When someone asks you to go out for sushi for the first time, there are probably dozens of thoughts running through your head. Is the fish cooked? What if I don’t know how to use chopsticks? Will there be vegetarian options on the menu? Don’t panic just yet. Sushi is a great option because it can accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions and flavor preferences, but it’s usually best to ease into this cuisine with some tried and true rolls.
Sushi Roll Basics
The first thing that comes to mind for most people when they think about sushi is fish. However, fish is just one of the many, many ingredients that can go into an amazing sushi roll. First, you need to start with the basics. This means vinegar rice, vegetables, and seaweed to wrap it all up into a neat little roll that can be sliced up for easy serving. Although many rolls only have a few ingredients, sushi chefs train for years to master the art of creating the perfect dish that will keep its shape after it’s been cut into sections. The process is a little tricky, which is why most people prefer to dine out for sushi rather than make it themselves at home.
Picking the Right Flavor Combo
The menu at a sushi restaurant can seem overwhelming at first, especially if there aren’t a lot of pictures because you might not know what you’re getting yourself into. When it’s your first time ordering sushi, it might be a good idea to skim the menu for the ‘basic’ or ‘classic’ rolls, which typically have milder flavor combinations that appeal to lots of people. If you’re looking for something on the fresh, healthy side, you can’t go wrong with a California roll, which is usually a combination of krab and avocado. For people who like a little more texture in their food, the Shrimp Tempura Crunch is an upgrade because it has some extra seafood and the whole roll is fried in a delicious batter. If you’re craving something savory, the Philadelphia roll, which has salmon, avocado, and cream cheese, is sure to hit the spot. Another favorite for diners looking for a little more heat is the spicy tuna roll, which is made with tuna and mayo that has just the right amount of spice.
Can You Order Sushi Without Fish?
If you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply don’t like fish, sushi might not seem like it has much to offer. But did you know one of the virtues of this food is that it’s easy to customize? You’re almost guaranteed to find a roll that meets your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Immature soybeans steamed or boiled in the pod, also known as edamame, are a delicious appetizer when you sprinkle on some salt. Avocado is also a popular ingredient in many rolls, so it can be used to develop the flavor profile of a roll without any meat or fish included. You can also order cucumber rolls, which do away with the rice and seaweed and use thin slices of cucumbers to wrap up all of the ingredients for an incredibly healthy and tasty meal. If you’re still unsure about your sushi options, you might consider giving seaweed salad a chance, which is popular for its savory, tangy taste thanks to the combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and salt. There’s sure to be something on the menu at a sushi restaurant to leave you feeling full and your taste buds satisfied.
Once you try sushi for the first time, you’ll be hooked! To experience some of the best sushi rolls handcrafted with the finest ingredients, check out our menu at RB Sushi today.
