Sushi is a delectable part of Japanese cuisine that is widely adored around the globe. For those unaccustomed to the dish, the sheer variety available in sushi bars and menus can feel overwhelming. If you’re one of the many people curious about sushi but aren’t sure where to start, the following guide will ensure a delicious first experience.

5 Tips for Diners New to Sushi

1. Start With Familiar Ingredients

Unless you’re an adventurous eater, you might not want to begin with ingredients you’ve never tried before. Play it safe at first and stick with what you know. For example, if you enjoy salmon, you would probably feel comfortable eating it in sushi. Look for rolls with other fish and vegetables you already like so you get accustomed to a new preparation method.

2. Ease Into Raw Seafood

Many people hesitate to try sushi because they’ve never tasted raw fish. They may not be aware that there are plenty of cooked options available as well. Ease into the concept of raw seafood by starting with cooked or tempura-style (deep-fried) sushi. Then, mix and match cooked and raw varieties.

3. Try Mild Flavors

When you feel ready to sample raw sushi, go for options with less pronounced fish flavors, such as tuna and squid. If you aren’t used to the intensity, a strong fish like mackerel might throw you off. You’ll begin to develop an appreciation for bolder flavors once your palate adjusts to milder tastes.

4. Order Inarizushi

Inarizushi is an excellent type of sushi for beginners. This simple dish consists of deep-fried tofu pouches boiled in a sweet sauce and filled with sushi rice. The tofu absorbs the delicious sauce in the cooking process, resulting in a burst of flavor with every bite. With no meat or veggies, even the pickiest eaters will enjoy inarizushi.

5. Cleanse Your Palate

If you’re trying an assortment from the sushi bar, you should cleanse your palate in order to properly taste each roll. Look for the light pink strips that always accompany sushi. This is pickled ginger, and you should eat one piece between bites to remove the taste of the previous roll. Pickled ginger will help you fully appreciate the unique flavors of each individual

Have your first sushi experience with a catering company that uses the finest quality ingredients. Natsunoya Tea House of Honolulu offers a delectable selection of sushi crafted by experienced chefs, as well as beautiful and spacious banquet halls for any occasion. Their sushi bar provides fresh, made-to-order rolls in a welcoming atmosphere, giving newcomers the perfect opportunity to find their favorite flavors. Visit their website to learn more about their menu. For information about catering services, call (808) 595-4488.