Sushi 101
Terms
Sushi actually means “seasoned rice”.
Nigiri a pair of precisely-sliced raw or cooked fish or roe served over an oblong mound of sushi rice with a dab of wasabi in between.
Sashimi is freshly-sliced raw or cooked fish, or roe. 6 pieces to an order.
Maki a cylindrical roll of sushi rice, fish and often times other tasty ingredients, wrapped in seaweed or soy paper, cut into bit-sized pieces.
Beginner Misconceptions
All sushi is raw.
NOT. While it’s true that traditional nigiri, sashimi, and maki are served with raw fish, Chaucer’s offers many enticing, cooked versions of these Japanese favorites.
Sushi is smelly, fishy and slimy!
Not true. This is high-quality sushi-grade fish, and Chaucer’s gives you options other than raw fish. We have Cucumber, Avocado, Veggie, and Deep veggie maki
Sushi is for rich people
Negative. Sushi used to be peasant food, for crying out loud. Not even the Emperor himself would touch the stuff. Sushi has evolved since the good old days and you do not need a trust fund to have a satisfying meal at Chaucer’s. We offer selected rolls 3 for $10 (may vary on Location).
Expert Misconceptions
The practice of mixing wasabi with your soy sauce
In Japan, extra wasabi is never given to the customer. If the sushi is meant to have that hint of wasabi flavor, it will be added by the sushi chef. In fact, adding it yourself is considered improper etiquette. But let us clarify, we are not actually knocking this practice, because the sushi experience is all about making it your own. We’ve noticed that many of our customers love that extra hit of heat. So, go for it! (Why else would we put it on your plate?)
The practice of dipping all sushi in soy sauce
We know, it’s hard to pass up that sweet salty goodness. If a roll already has a sauce, like our signature eel and spicy mayo, try to resist the urge to take a dive into the soy, doing so changes the intended flavors. Also, sushi with sweeter flavor profiles, should never be dipped into soy sauce.