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WHAT IS NIGIRI?

Updated: Dec 20, 2023


Nigirizushi- The “no surprise” sushi

The word nigiri (ni-giri) in Japanese stands for “two fingers.” This is the typical portion of rice that sushi artists use in  order to do the act of “nigiru,” which is to grasp, or seize, the rice that will bed a delicious slice of fresh fish. All words combined make the final name of “nigirizushi” 握り寿司.

Nigirizushi’s simple presentation makes it the most honest, “no surprise” sushi option in any menu. It is perfect for sushi beginners who are ready to graduate to a more exotic choice.


The simply delicious Nigiri

At a typical Japanese restaurant Nigiri is made of two components: sushi rice, which is the sour, vinegared sticky rice, that makes sushi so popular. This is topped with a thin slice of raw fish on top. This piece of raw fish is called“sashimi.” The actual Japanese meaning of the word “sashimi” stands for “hooked meat,”or “pierced meat,”as in when a fish gets freshly caught by a hook.

Our sushi and sashimi bar offers sashimi-only options which are just as satisfying and varied as the popular sushi rolls. Nigiri, however, is a good choice when you want to add the slightly sweet taste of sushi rice to fresh fish slices that are eaten raw.


Does it have to have only raw fish?

Nigiri is usually topped with a raw fish slice, but there are also smoked, seared, and cooked fish options that go on top. At customers’ requests, vegetarian options can be available.


What does it come with?

Nigiri pieces are typically served in pairs and garnished with pickled ginger leaves, a dollop of wasabi sauce, and a small dish with soy sauce. Add variety and color to your plate by ordering different fish options.


Typical fish options for Nigiri Sushi

• sake – salmon • hamachi – yellowtail • unagi – fresh water eel • hirame – halibut • maguro – tuna • tako – octopus


A complex simplicity

Nigiri sushi seems simple enough to eat, but it is not as simple to make. The way to slice the fish and the way to form the rice takes a lot of training and dedication. Nigiri is also off-limits to some sushi artists. Prior to attempt Nigiri, sushi artists need to begin doing menial jobs in the kitchen and get properly trained. Therefore, always appreciate the artist behind the counter: it has taken them time and effort to have the honor of serving you.


Key differences between Nigiri and other types of sushi

1. Nigiri is for sushi eaters who are ready for a more exotic experience. 2. Its presentation in based on a perfectly-shaped block of rice, topped with a delicately-sliced piece of raw fish 3. Like other types of sushi, it is garnished with a dollop of wasabi sauce, soy sauce, and pickled ginger slices to cleanse the palate. 4. Unlike other types of sushi, it does not consist of a roll, or “maki,” and it is not wrapped in seaweed. 5. The top is usually a slice of fish such as mackerel, salmon, yellowfin, or even octopus. 6. Like other sushi, it is eaten with chopsticks, but it can also be eaten with your hands. 7. Nigiri will likely not include garnishes such as avocado, spicy mayo, or cream cheese. The focus of nigiri is the fish. 8. Nigiri is topped with sashimi or raw fish, but it is not, in itself, sashimi. The amount of rice used in the recipe is of vital importance to the final product.

Treat yourself to a few options of our nigiri and enjoy the pleasure of fresh and delicious fish made with the highest standard qualities in the food industry.

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