Is Sashimi Sushi? What’s the Difference

A boatload of different kinds of sushi

As you browse the offerings at your favourite Japanese restaurant, you may ponder, “Is sashimi sushi?”. While sushi and sashimi are integral parts of Japanese cuisine, they are distinct dishes with unique characteristics. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between sushi and sashimi, delve into the world of raw and cooked seafood, and discuss some of the health benefits of these delicious dishes. So, let’s dive in and discover what sets these two dishes apart!

Sushi: A Delightful Combination of Ingredients

Different variations of sushi on a plate

Sushi is a popular dish, not just in Japanese cuisine but across the globe. Sushi consists of seasoned rice, known as “sushi rice” or “vinegared rice”, combined with various other ingredients, such as raw or cooked fish, vegetables, and even fruits. Sushi comes in many forms, including:

• Nigiri: Hand-pressed sushi rice topped with a slice of raw or cooked fish, seafood, or other ingredients.
• Maki rolls: Sushi rice and other ingredients rolled up in a sheet of seaweed, also known as nori.
• California roll: A type of maki roll featuring cooked crab meat, avocado, and cucumber, often served inside-out with rice on the outside

The key ingredient in sushi is vinegar rice. The rice is seasoned with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, which gives it a slightly sweet and tangy flavour, perfect for complementing the other ingredients in sushi.

Sashimi: A Pure Celebration of Raw Fish

Sashimi is thinly sliced fresh fish served on a platter with dipping sauces

Unlike sushi, sashimi is a dish consisting solely of thinly sliced raw fish or meat, served without rice. The most common types of sashimi include:

• salmon
• tuna
• sea bream

Other seafood, such as sea urchin, scallops, and even thinly sliced raw meat can also be served as sashimi.

You may receive a small side of soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for dipping and cleansing your palate between bites when ordering sashimi.

Sashimi is a true celebration of fresh, raw seafood. The dish’s simplicity allows the natural flavours and textures of the fish or meat to shine through, providing an unparalleled tasting experience.

The Key Differences Between Sushi and Sashimi

Now that we’ve explored the basics of sushi and sashimi let’s dive into the key differences between these two dishes:

• Rice: The most obvious difference between sushi and sashimi is the presence of rice in sushi. While sushi is built around seasoned rice, sashimi is served without rice.
• Raw vs. Cooked: Sushi can include raw and cooked ingredients, while sashimi is typically only raw seafood or meat.
• Presentation: Sushi is often served as bite-sized pieces or rolls. Sashimi is presented as elegantly sliced fish or meat, often arranged on a bed of daikon radish or shiso leaves.

Health Benefits and Considerations

A great combination of rice, seafood and vegetables

Both sushi and sashimi can offer health benefits, as they are typically rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients commonly found in fish and seafood. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind when enjoying these dishes:

• Raw vs. Cooked: While raw fish can be a healthy option, it does carry a risk of foodborne illness, particularly if it is not handled and prepared correctly. If you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or are concerned about the risks of consuming raw fish, opt for cooked sushi or sashimi options, such as grilled eel, shrimp, or cooked crab.
• Freshwater vs. Saltwater Fish: Most sashimi and sushi dishes feature saltwater fish. They are less likely to harbour parasites than freshwater fish. If you prepare sushi or sashimi at home, always choose high-quality, fresh, saltwater fish and follow proper handling and preparation techniques.
• Nutrience: While sushi and sashimi can be part of a healthy diet, it’s important to be mindful of the caloric content of certain rolls and dishes. Some sushi rolls, particularly those containing tempura, mayonnaise, or cream cheese, can be higher in calories and less nutritious than simpler options, such as nigiri or basic maki rolls.
• Sodium: Soy sauce, a common accompaniment to sushi and sashimi, is high in sodium. If you are watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or simply dipping your sushi or sashimi sparingly.
• Sustainability: When choosing sushi or sashimi, it’s important to be mindful of the environmental impact of certain fish species. Opt for sustainable choices, such as pole-caught tuna or farmed salmon, to support the health of our oceans and seafood populations.

Sushi Recipes to Try at Home

Creating your sushi at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. You can enjoy a delicious, homemade sushi feast with a bit of practice and the right ingredients. Here are two sushi recipes to get you started:

Classic Salmon Nigiri

Simple Cucumber Maki Roll

These sushi recipes are just the beginning of your sushi-making journey.

Once you become comfortable with the basics, you can experiment with various fillings and flavours to create unique sushi rolls. Some other popular ingredients to try include:

• Tuna
• Shrimp
• Eel
• Smoked salmon
• Tempura vegetables or prawns
• Cream cheese
• Pickled radish
• Mango
• Chilli sauce or spicy mayonnaise

Remember that the key to great sushi is using high-quality, fresh ingredients. For the best results, source your fish and seafood from a reputable supplier, such as Manettas Seafood Market, which offers a wide selection of fresh and sustainably sourced options.

Sushi-making tips

Sharp knife to cut a perfect sushi roll

1. Invest in a good-quality, sharp knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting sushi rolls neatly and cleanly. Look for a knife with a long, thin blade, such as a sashimi knife or a chef’s knife.
2. Keep your hands and knife wet: Sushi rice can be quite sticky, so wetting your hands and knife with water will help prevent the rice from sticking and make it easier to work with.
3. Refrain from overstuffing your rolls: While loading your sushi rolls with lots of delicious fillings might be tempting, overstuffing can make it difficult to roll and cut your sushi. Stick to a few simple ingredients for the best results.
4. Practice makes perfect: Sushi-making can be tricky at first, but keep going if your rolls don’t turn out perfectly the first time. With practice, you’ll get the hang of it and be able to create restaurant-quality sushi at home.

The takeaway

An appetizing platter of sushi in different variations

So, is sashimi sushi? The answer is: no. While sushi and sashimi are beloved components of Japanese cuisine, they are distinct dishes with unique characteristics. Sushi is a versatile dish featuring seasoned rice combined with various ingredients, such as raw or cooked fish, vegetables, and more, while sashimi is a pure celebration of raw seafood served without rice.

Whether you prefer the complexity and variety of sushi rolls or the simple elegance of sashimi, both dishes offer a delightful taste experience and a chance to enjoy the fresh flavours of fish and seafood. Next time you visit your favourite Japanese restaurant or order from Manettas Seafood Market, consider trying a mix of sushi and sashimi dishes to enjoy the full spectrum of tastes and textures Japanese cuisine offers.