International Sushi Day 2025: Top 5 Popular Types of Sushi You Must Try
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Every year on June 18, food enthusiasts across the globe come together to celebrate International Sushi Day, a day dedicated to one of Japan’s most beloved culinary creations. First observed in 2009, the occasion is not just about enjoying sushi but also appreciating its cultural significance and nutritional benefits. Made with vinegared rice, fresh vegetables, and often raw seafood, sushi is as healthy as it is flavourful - packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. If you’re new to sushi, here are five popular varieties you should definitely explore.
Nigiri – The Classic Favourite
Nigiri is a timeless sushi staple. It features a small, hand-pressed mound of vinegared rice topped with raw or cooked fish such as tuna, salmon, or shrimp. Often finished with a touch of wasabi or a strip of seaweed, Nigiri is perfect for purists who appreciate simplicity and tradition.
Sashimi – Sushi, Minus the Rice
Though it lacks rice, Sashimi often gets grouped with sushi. It consists of thin slices of raw fish like tuna or salmon, served as-is to highlight the pure flavour of the seafood. Ideal for seafood lovers who prefer a minimalist approach.
Uramaki – The Inside-Out Roll
Uramaki is a modern twist where the rice wraps around the outside of the roll, typically coated in sesame seeds or fish roe. With the filling inside and the rice outside, this Western-style sushi is a great pick for beginners easing into the sushi experience.
Maki – The Traditional Roll
Maki is what many think of when they picture sushi. It’s made by rolling fish and vegetables in vinegared rice and seaweed (nori), then slicing it into bite-sized pieces. There are different versions like futomaki (thick rolls), hosomaki (thin rolls), and uramaki (inside-out rolls).
Chirashi – A Colourful Bowlful
Chirashi, which means "scattered," is a vibrant bowl of sushi rice topped with assorted raw fish, vegetables, and other garnishes. It’s customisable, less structured than traditional rolls, and offers a visual feast along with bold flavours.
Whether you're a seasoned sushi fan or a curious first-timer, International Sushi Day is the perfect excuse to sample the variety and depth of this Japanese delicacy. Try one or try them all - your taste buds are in for a treat!
Nigiri – The Classic Favourite
Nigiri is a timeless sushi staple. It features a small, hand-pressed mound of vinegared rice topped with raw or cooked fish such as tuna, salmon, or shrimp. Often finished with a touch of wasabi or a strip of seaweed, Nigiri is perfect for purists who appreciate simplicity and tradition.
Sashimi – Sushi, Minus the Rice
Though it lacks rice, Sashimi often gets grouped with sushi. It consists of thin slices of raw fish like tuna or salmon, served as-is to highlight the pure flavour of the seafood. Ideal for seafood lovers who prefer a minimalist approach.
Uramaki – The Inside-Out Roll
Uramaki is a modern twist where the rice wraps around the outside of the roll, typically coated in sesame seeds or fish roe. With the filling inside and the rice outside, this Western-style sushi is a great pick for beginners easing into the sushi experience.
Maki – The Traditional Roll
Maki is what many think of when they picture sushi. It’s made by rolling fish and vegetables in vinegared rice and seaweed (nori), then slicing it into bite-sized pieces. There are different versions like futomaki (thick rolls), hosomaki (thin rolls), and uramaki (inside-out rolls).
Chirashi – A Colourful Bowlful
Chirashi, which means "scattered," is a vibrant bowl of sushi rice topped with assorted raw fish, vegetables, and other garnishes. It’s customisable, less structured than traditional rolls, and offers a visual feast along with bold flavours.
Whether you're a seasoned sushi fan or a curious first-timer, International Sushi Day is the perfect excuse to sample the variety and depth of this Japanese delicacy. Try one or try them all - your taste buds are in for a treat!
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