【Learn Chinese】A Beginner's Guide to Different Types of Sushi

When you think of Japanese cuisine, the first thing that often comes to mind is 寿司 (Shòusī) - Sushi. This iconic food has become a global phenomenon, beloved for its elegant combination of flavors and textures.
But did you know that "sushi" actually refers to the vinegared rice, and there are many different styles to enjoy? Let's explore the delicious world of sushi!

The most famous type is perhaps 寿司卷 (Shòusī juǎn) - Sushi Roll. These are rolls wrapped in 海苔 (hǎitāi) - dried seaweed. Inside, you'll find ingredients like 黄瓜 (huángguā) - cucumber, 鳄梨 (èlí) - avocado, and fresh 鱼 (yú) - fish. A 加州卷 (Jiāzhōu juǎn) - California Roll is a famous Western invention that helped popularize sushi globally.
If you see a small block of rice topped with a slice of fish, that is 握寿司 (Wò shòusī) - Nigiri Sushi. This style highlights the quality and taste of the topping. Common toppings include 三文鱼 (Sānwényú) - Salmon, 金枪鱼 (Jīnqiāngyú) - Tuna, and 虾 (xiā) - Shrimp. It is often eaten with a little 酱油 (jiàngyóu) - soy sauce.
For a simpler experience, try 刺身 (Cìshēn) - Sashimi. This is not technically sushi because it lacks the vinegared rice. It consists of expertly sliced, raw fish or seafood served alone, meant to be appreciated in its purest form.
Another popular choice is 手卷 (Shǒujuǎn) - Temaki, which is a hand-rolled cone of seaweed filled with sushi rice, fish, and vegetables. It's fun to eat and perfect for a casual snack. For a vegetarian option, look for 干瓢卷 (Gānpiáo juǎn) - Kanpyo Roll, made with dried gourd strips.

Understanding these types can make ordering sushi less intimidating and more enjoyable. Whether you prefer the elaborate rolls or the simple perfection of nigiri, there's a style of sushi for every palate. So next time you visit a sushi restaurant, be adventurous and try something new! You might just discover a new favorite.