sushi
Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice combined with various ingredients, most commonly raw seafood, vegetables, or sometimes tropical fruits. The mental image is of a bite-sized piece of seasoned rice topped with a slice of fresh fish, often served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. While globally recognized, the term specifically refers to the "shari" (vinegared rice) rather than just the fish itself. It is a very versatile word used in casual social settings, whether you are planning a dinner out or grabbing a quick lunch at a supermarket.
In conversation
Planning dinner
Are you in the mood for sushi tonight?
Are you in the mood for sushi tonight?
That sounds great, I've been craving sashimi all week.
That sounds great, I've been craving sashimi all week.
'Sushi' is often used as a general category for Japanese seafood dining.
Ordering at a restaurant
Would you like to start with some sushi rolls?
Would you like to start with some sushi rolls?
Yes, please, and a side of extra wasabi.
Yes, please, and a side of extra wasabi.
Sushi rolls are a common entry point for beginners.
Examples
I love eating sushi for lunch.
I love eating sushi for lunch.
We went to a high-end restaurant to try authentic Edo-style sushi.
We went to a high-end restaurant to try authentic Edo-style sushi.
The chef meticulously prepared the nigiri sushi, balancing the temperature of the fish with the seasoned rice.
The chef meticulously prepared the nigiri sushi, balancing the temperature of the fish with the seasoned rice.
