When it comes to sushi, freshness is not a question of preference but a matter of life and death. Fresh ingredients create the heartbeat of great sushi, from a delicate slice of sashimi to the tug of a perfectly rolled maki. Freshness is what an excellent meal is tagged as opposed to the mundane. But why does it matter so much, and where, after all, is the distinction?
Importance of Freshness in Sushi
Sushi stands for subtlety. Unlike aggressively flavored dishes, sushi evokes flavors from the ingredients, especially the fish. When these ingredients are fresh, they shine. Fresh fish has a clean ocean smell, soft, buttery feel, and does not consequently require much else. But when is it not fresh? The difference is an obvious one.
But, mind you, the fish is not it. Freshly cooked rice, crisp vegetables, and well-kept nori (seaweed) also contribute a big share to the perfect bite. For instance, sushi rice should be warm and slightly vinegared, but never dry or mushy.
From Sea to Table: A Sensitive Journey
A reason why highly skilled sushi chefs are finicky is that top restaurants often deal directly with local fish markets or import seafood only from trusted sources; they want to make sure that whatever ends up on your dinner plate had been swimming in the ocean a day or two ago. From sea to table requires delicate handling, temperature control, and a high regard for the ingredients.
In some traditional sushi bars, chefs will even age certain cuts of fish, such as tuna, for a few days to accentuate umami flavors—just goes to show that just because something is “fresh” doesn’t mean it has to be raw or on the same day.
Ways to Tell If Sushi Is Fresh
One does not need to be a sushi connoisseur to tell whether any dish is being served fresh. A few simple indicators will tell you what to look for:
- Look at the fish: It should be bright, not dull, with bright, moistened translucence.
- Smell the plate: You should get a whiff of the sea when smelling fresh sushi; nothing fishy.
- Check for texture: It should be firm and not slimy or washed-out.
- Taste it: Clean, light flavors that dissipate quickly on the palate mean that the ingredients are probably top-notch.
Sushi Inc. is a vibrant restaurant that offers what is considered the best sushi in St Petersburg. Opening its doors in 2013 and becoming a local staple by offering live music, traditional hand-rolled sushi, and a friendly atmosphere, our guests always have a top-notch experience. Customers love our award-winning, fresh, and creative Sushi rolls, Nigiri, and Sashimi. With a larger selection of tempura, non-Sushi, and teriyaki options, we can accommodate every taste.
