Oshizushi: A Guide to Japanese Pressed Sushi
Sushi is a beloved dish all over the world, and there are many different types of sushi to choose from. One type of sushi that may be less familiar to Western palates is oshizushi, also known as "pressed sushi". This unique style of sushi has a distinctive texture and flavor that sets it apart from other types of sushi. In this post, we'll take a closer look at oshizushi and what makes it so special.
Origins of Oshizushi
Oshizushi originated in Osaka, Japan, during the Edo period (1603-1868). It was created as a way to make sushi that could be transported easily and was less perishable than other types of sushi. The technique of pressing sushi into a compact block made it easier to pack and store, and also allowed for a wider variety of ingredients to be used.
How Oshizushi is Made
To make oshizushi, a rectangular or square-shaped wooden mold called an oshibako is used. The mold is lined with a layer of thinly sliced toppings, such as raw fish, cooked seafood, or vegetables. Then, a layer of seasoned sushi rice is added on top of the toppings, and the entire mixture is pressed firmly into the mold using a lid or a weight.
The pressing process compacts the ingredients into a tightly packed block, which is then removed from the mold and sliced into bite-sized pieces. Oshizushi can be served cold or at room temperature, and is often garnished with soy sauce, wasabi, or pickled ginger.
Varieties of Oshizushi
There are many different types of oshizushi, and the toppings can vary widely depending on the region and the chef's preferences. Some common types of oshizushi include:
Sabazushi: made with mackerel and sushi rice, this type of oshizushi is popular in the Kansai region of Japan.
Battera: made with pressed mackerel and sushi rice, this type of oshizushi is popular in Osaka and is often served with a soy sauce and vinegar dressing.
Masuzushi: made with trout or salmon and sushi rice, this type of oshizushi is popular in the Nagano region of Japan and is often served with a mustard and miso sauce.
Why Oshizushi is Special
Oshizushi has a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart from other types of sushi. The pressing process compacts the ingredients and creates a firm texture that is different from the soft, delicate texture of other types of sushi. The toppings are also more concentrated in flavor due to the pressing process, which creates a more intense taste experience.
In addition, oshizushi allows for a wider variety of ingredients to be used than other types of sushi. The compact shape of the sushi block allows for more creative and elaborate designs, and the pressing process allows for ingredients to be layered and arranged in different ways.
Conclusion
Oshizushi is a unique and delicious type of sushi that is definitely worth trying if you're a sushi lover. Whether you prefer raw fish, cooked seafood, or vegetables, there is a type of oshizushi that will suit your taste buds. So next time you're at a sushi restaurant, why not try a plate of oshizushi and experience the unique flavors and textures for yourself?
If you're intrigued by oshizushi and would like to try it for yourself, we invite you to visit our restaurant, Nubo Kitchen+Bar. We specialize in Japanese fusion cuisine and offer a range of innovative dishes that blend Japanese flavors with international influences. Our menu includes several delicious oshizushi options, each featuring unique combinations of toppings and flavors. We take pride in using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients to create our dishes, and we strive to provide excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere for our guests. So why not come in and give oshizushi a try? We're sure you'll love it!
