Jan 17 2010

A Western Approach To Traditional Sushi; Gen Sushi

People who fear to try a conventional sushi, thinking that it consists of raw fish, can feast on Gen Sushi. Gen sushi, or New Generation sushi, came into existence with the blend of western tastes and has a variety of vegetables and cooked dishes including scallops and tuna, for the timid people who wish to experience sushi. A few things should be kept in mind if you are thinking of trying gen sushi.

Gen sushi is a spin off form of the traditional Japanese sushi, for those who fear to eat raw fish sushi. This style of sushi has forms like the Boston rolls and the California maki rolls. Gen sushi is a great option for those people who do not wish to try the Japanese fish dishes like sashimi or nigiri.

The traditional Japanese reverence for good quality food in small portions has dissipated in America, with sushi bars deferring to the American-sized appetite and attraction to colorful food in big portions.There is a specific way in which sushi should be eaten, whatever form it may be in. There are methods to eat sushi in a polite manner in the Japanese culture, and it is also observed in the western restaurants as well.

For instance, sushi should never be passed from one set of chopsticks to another when you are sharing your sushi platter with friends and family, as it is considered as uncivilized and unmannerly to do so at dinner. This custom is observed only at funerals in Japan.

Carefully place your chopsticks on the edge of your plate or in the provided holders. Chopsticks should not be placed on the edge of your plate with its base touching the table. Similarly, never whittle your chopsticks.

You should also be careful as to the amount of soy sauce you take, as it should be not more than you need, so it does not get wasted.

It is considered bad to waste food in Japanese culture, so you should not leave any sushi or food behind on your plate. Otherwise, it will be considered as an insult to the chef.

Gen sushi is available at a specialty sushi store, although many grocery stores and Asian markets do have stock for sushi now. It is also available in restaurants which specialize in this style of sushi, or you can simply visit a traditional sushi restaurant. Whether you are looking for a healthy alternative, enjoy Asian cuisine or just like to experience different styles of food, Sushi has proven to be the answer for many Americans. With its low fat, healthy character and delicious taste sushi really is the food of the future – even though it’s been around for more than a thousand years!

Ingrid Preube
Get further info on sushi set and gen sushi.


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