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Types of Sushi Explained
Sushi is one of the most popular Japanese dishes worldwide, offering a diverse range of flavours, textures, and presentations. Whether you’re new to sushi or a seasoned sushi lover, understanding the different types of sushi can enhance your appreciation of this iconic cuisine.
In this guide, we will break down the most traditional sushi types, explore modern sushi varieties, and introduce you to popular sushi types found in Japanese restaurants worldwide.
What Are the Different Kinds of Sushi?
Sushi comes in many forms, from simple hand-pressed nigiri to elaborate specialty rolls. Below, we explain the most well-known sushi varieties, their ingredients, and how they are prepared.
Nigiri – The Classic Hand-Pressed Sushi
Nigiri is one of the most traditional sushi types, featuring a small, hand-pressed mound of sushi rice topped with fresh fish or seafood. It is often served with a small dab of wasabi between the rice and the topping.
Popular Nigiri Varieties:
- Salmon Nigiri (Sake Nigiri) – A tender slice of fresh salmon on seasoned rice.
- Tuna Nigiri (Maguro Nigiri) – A rich, deep-flavoured piece of tuna.
- Eel Nigiri (Unagi Nigiri) – A sweet and savoury eel, often glazed with a rich sauce.
- Shrimp Nigiri (Ebi Nigiri) – A lightly cooked prawn served on rice.
Nigiri is a pure and simple way to enjoy the natural flavours of fresh fish, making it one of the most popular sushi types in Japan.
Maki – The Classic Sushi Roll
Maki rolls are one of the most well-known types of sushi varieties, consisting of sushi rice and various fillings wrapped in a sheet of nori (seaweed) and sliced into bite-sized pieces.
Types of Maki Rolls:
- Hosomaki – Small rolls with a single ingredient, such as cucumber or tuna.
- Futomaki – Thick sushi rolls with multiple fillings.
- Uramaki (Inside-Out Rolls) – A modern variation where rice is on the outside.
Sushi Roll Names – Popular Varieties Around the World
Many sushi rolls have become famous worldwide, each offering a unique blend of flavours and textures.
Well-Known Sushi Roll Names:
- California Roll – Crab, avocado, and cucumber wrapped in rice and nori.
- Spicy Tuna Roll – A bold and spicy twist on traditional tuna sushi.
- Rainbow Roll – A colourful roll topped with different types of fish.
- Dragon Roll – An eel and avocado roll with a visually stunning presentation.
These popular sushi types combine traditional sushi techniques with modern creativity, making them a favourite in Japanese restaurants worldwide.
Traditional Types of Sushi – A Taste of Authentic Japanese Sushi
While sushi has evolved over the years, traditional types of sushi remain at the core of Japanese cuisine.
Temaki – Hand Rolls for a Unique Eating Experience
Temaki sushi is a cone-shaped hand roll, perfect for those who enjoy a more interactive dining experience. It consists of seaweed wrapped around rice and fresh ingredients, designed to be eaten with your hands.
Popular Temaki Fillings:
Salmon & Avocado
Spicy Tuna
Prawn Tempura
Temaki is a fun and casual way to enjoy sushi, making it a favourite at sushi bars.
Sashimi – Pure Flavours Without Rice
Unlike other sushi varieties, sashimi consists of thinly sliced raw fish served without rice. It highlights the natural texture and flavour of fresh seafood.
Traditional Sashimi Types:
Salmon Sashimi
Tuna Sashimi
Sea Bass Sashimi
Sashimi is often enjoyed with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger, allowing diners to fully appreciate the delicate taste of the fish.
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Sushi Handroll Locations
Barkingside
Phone: 020 8143 0141
159 High Street Barkingside,
IG6 2AJ.
Monday to Thursday 11am – 10:30pm
Friday to Sunday 10.30am – 10.30pm
Finsbury Park
Phone: 020 3336 9357
148 Tollington Park,
Finsbury Park,
London, N4 3AD.
Monday to Sunday 11am – 11pm
Forest Hill
Phone: 020 3551 1181
Forest Hill,
190 Dartmouth Road,
SE26 4QZ.
Monday to Thursday 11am – 10pm
Friday to Sunday 11am – 10:30pm
Romford
Phone: 01708 592 269
18 South Street,
RM1 1RA.
Monday to Thursday: 10:30am – 11pm
Friday to Sunday: 10:30am – 11:30pm
Upminster
Coming Soon
73 Corbets Tey Road,
Upminster,
RM14 2AJ.
Walthamstow
Phone: 020 3544 1391
169 Hoe Street,
E17 3AL.
Monday to Thursday: 11am – 11pm
Friday to Sunday: 11am – 11:30 pm
West Norwood
Phone: 020 3609 6428
60 Knights Hill,
West Norwood,
London, SE27 0JD.
Monday to Thursday 11am – 10pm
Friday to Sunday 11am – 10:30pm