5 Tips to Add Sushi Into Your Diet

There's something very appealing about sushi. It's one of the most artistic foods. You'll probably see your favorite celebrities dining on an expensive plate of raw fish at a trendy California restaurant. One day, you tell yourself, you'll be just like them.

However, if you're anything like us, eating anything uncooked is unsettling, and the taste could be even more jarring. Thankfully, there are ways you can train yourself to be open to it. Below, discover our five pro tips for becoming the ultimate sushi consumer.

Eat the Sushi of a Trusted Chef

If you're hesitant to try sushi, only eat from a trusted chef. That means heading to a restaurant with good reviews, and the person making your roll specializes in the art. While you might prefer to let your friend make it, there may be a wider margin of error. You don't need food poisoning to further turn you off from the dish. Besides, a certified chef will likely offer a better-tasting product.

(via Unsplash)

 

Try a Veggie Roll

You might be afraid of trying raw meat. It's understandable and completely avoidable. We recommend beginning with a veggie role, which can be as customizable as sushi with fish. You can add avocado, cucumber, potato, tofu, mushrooms and more. It's a low-stakes way to introduce the flavors you will taste with seafood.

 

Also read about: A Definitive Ranking of Island Way Sorbet Flavors

 

Only Include Cooked Meats

Once you get used to the texture of a veggie roll, you can graduate to cooked fish. Honestly, we aren't big on seafood, so we even order sushi with chicken sometimes. Some might argue that a chicken tempura roll isn't "real" sushi, but it's just as valid as the ones with fish and equally tasty. Don't let anyone discourage you!

 

Avoid the Wasabi

While sushi itself isn't spicy, adding wasabi might catch your mouth on fire. It might be tempting to mask the taste, but avoid the risk of ruining it with unexpected heat. Instead, go for something less polarizing, like ginger or soy sauce.

(via Unsplash)

 

Rationalization and Acceptance

You've done all the previous steps. Then, you finally try it: sushi stuffed with your favorite vegetables and raw fish. But you still don't like it. It's okay to admit that you may never be the hardcore sushi eater. Along the way, you learned more about your palate. Regardless, the other types of sushi, with cooked meat or no meat, will always be there waiting for you.

 

Are you seeking for other ways to expand your palate? Read HERE for five underrated cuisines to try.