As sushi has become popular throughout much of the world, quality has sometimes been sacrificed for quantity. While Western culture has incorporated sushi into the pre-packaged section of many grocery stores, only dishes prepared fresh in a restaurant or sushi bar can offer an authentic, exceptional meal. Here are three qualities that separate exemplary sushi from the commonplace.

What Makes Excellent Sushi?

1. Quality Rice

A skilled chef will control the temperature, acidity, and consistency of the rice, which is the foundation of sushi. Everything from the seasonality of a crop to the temperature and humidity of a given day should be taken into consideration when preparing the rice. The rice must be cooked evenly and produce whole, firm grains that retain their molded shape to provide a solid base for the topping.

2. Fresh Fish

For a remarkable sushi experience, the fish must be fresh—preferably caught that day. The chef must also navigate the anatomy of fish and seafood to accurately carve out the meat and know which cuts are best to use for a given type of sushi. The fattiness of the cut, particularly with tuna, determines the flavor of the fish, and the thickness of each slice contributes to the texture. 

3. Aroma

Smell plays a large role in taste, and a sushi chef will keep this in mind when preparing dishes. For example, some fish like mackerel have a stronger scent than others, so they’ll balance it with ginger, green onion, lemon juice, garlic, or wasabi.

If you’re in the mood for sushi, head to Natsunoya Tea House in Honolulu, HI. Along with their sushi bar on-site that serves up local and Japanese specialties, they provide banquet room rentals and quality catering. To make a reservation or schedule catering services, call them today at (808) 595-4488, or visit their website for more information on their sushi bar offerings.