Western Taste To Eastern Delicacy: New Generation Sushi
The increasing popularity of sushi in North America has given the birth to the creation of New generation sushi, normally known as gen sushi. Gen sushi is a sushi created to suit the Western palate, and is rarely found in Japan, as it appeals to the western tastes. People who fear to eat the standard raw fish sushi, can experience this type with a variety of vegetables, scallops and tuna. However, a few things are necessary to be kept in mind before you try gen sushi.
Gen sushi offers a way for people willing to try Japanese dishes without tasting the raw fish. However, these dishes are a spin off of traditional styles of sushi. For instance there are maki rolls in California and Boston which are Americanized. This style becomes acceptable to try before venturing into the raw fish domain which contains dishes like sashimi and nigiri.
A wide variety of American restaurants are present which offer sushi. Sushi is eaten in a unique style which needs to be followed whether you are trying gen sushi or traditional one. Following traditional methods depicting politeness is very necessary while dinning in a Japanese restaurant.
As an example, you should be careful not to pass sushi from your chopsticks to another person’s, if you are sharing it with friends and family. It is considered as extremely inconsiderate and unmannerly, as this custom is used in funerals in Japan and is reserved for handling cremated bones.
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.
Soy sauce is also another aspect of sushi eating manners which should be properly observed. Wasting soy sauce is considered ill manners in Japanese culture.
Soy sauce should only be used as much as required for leaving even a tiny amount of food on the table means serious disrespect for the sushi 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 more facts about sushi recipe and gen sushi.
Tags: cooking, food, recipes, restaurant, sushi