What is Sashimi?

What is sashimi?

Sashimi is a Japanese dish that consists of thin slices of raw fish or other seafood, typically served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. The word "sashimi" means "pierced body," which refers to the traditional method of preparing the fish by slicing it and removing the bones.

Sashimi is often confused with sushi, which is a dish that consists of vinegared rice topped with raw fish or other ingredients. While sushi can include sashimi as one of the ingredients, sashimi is typically served on its own, without rice.

What does sashimi taste like?

Sashimi is a very delicate and subtle-tasting dish, as it is made with raw fish or seafood that has not been cooked. The flavor of sashimi depends on the type of fish or seafood being used, but it is generally described as fresh, clean, and slightly sweet.

The texture of sashimi is also an important part of the overall experience. The thin slices of raw fish should be tender and melt-in-your-mouth, with a smooth, silky texture.

Sashimi is typically served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger, which can add flavor and balance out the mild taste of the raw fish. The soy sauce and wasabi are usually mixed together to create a dipping sauce, while the pickled ginger is used to cleanse the palate between bites.

What is the history/origin of sashimi?

The origins of sashimi can be traced back to the Heian period in Japan, when it was served as a type of condiment or garnish. At this time, sashimi was typically made with pickled or fermented fish, as there were no reliable methods for preserving raw fish.

During the Edo period, the technique of slicing raw fish and removing the bones became more refined, and sashimi began to be served as a standalone dish. At this time, sashimi was considered a luxury food, and it was typically only served to high-ranking officials and wealthy families.

Today, sashimi is enjoyed by people of all social classes in Japan and around the world. It is a popular dish at Japanese restaurants and is often served as part of a multi-course meal or as an appetizer. Sashimi has also gained popularity in other countries, where it is often served at sushi restaurants and other types of seafood establishments.

How is sashimi served?

Sashimi is typically served on a plate or platter, with thin slices of raw fish or seafood arranged in a visually appealing manner. The slices of sashimi are usually accompanied by soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Sashimi is typically enjoyed with chopsticks, and it is customary to dip the sashimi into the soy sauce and wasabi mixture before eating it. The pickled ginger, which has a slightly sweet and sour flavor, is usually eaten between bites to cleanse the palate.

Sashimi may also be served with other foods, such as shredded daikon radish, scallions, or shiso leaves. Sashimi is often served as part of a multi-course meal, and it may be followed by other dishes such as tempura, sushi, or grilled meats. Sashimi is a delicate and sophisticated dish that is meant to be savored and enjoyed slowly. It is often served in small portions so that each bite can be fully appreciated.

How do you make sashimi? 

To make sashimi:

The most important aspect of making sashimi is to start with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The fish should be very fresh, as it will be served raw. You may need to purchase the fish from a specialty market or from a supplier who specializes in high-quality, sushi-grade seafood.

Carefully cut the fish or seafood into thin slices. Sashimi slices should be about 1/8 inch thick, and they should be cut in a way that removes any bones or other inedible parts of the fish.

Arrange the sashimi slices on a platter or individual plates. 

Serve the sashimi with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Pro tip- enjoy the sashimi immediately, as it is best served fresh.