In traditional Japanese cuisine, sushi is mostly treated as a stand-alone dish, but there is nothing to prevent appetisers being served before it is served. This is common both in restaurants and at parties at home. If you are wondering, how to choose starters for sushi, read our short guide.

Sushi starters - why they are served

Starters are designed to stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for the main course. They offer variety in terms of flavours and textures, allowing guests to enjoy different culinary experiences. For celebrations or special occasions starters add elegance and charm to the whole meal, making it more special. In the context of sushi starters can be seen as a gentle introduction to the more refined flavours of the main course.

Popular starters served with sushi

Ingredients that go well with sushi and enrich the experience of its consumption include:

Oysters

Oysters have a rich maritime flavour that can complement very well the the subtle flavours of sushi. Their pronounced salty flavour is a contrast to delicate fish and seafood. Oysters are often served raw, on the half shell, with various accompaniments such as lemon juice, vinaigrette sauce or freshly grated horseradish. It is important that they are fresh and high quality. Oysters are known for their beneficial nutritional properties, including zinc, protein, vitamins and minerals. It is worth remembering that they have allergenic potential.

Blanched soya pods

They are called edamame. They are harvested when the soybeans are still young and green, unlike mature soybeans, which are harder and often processed into other products. Typically, edamame are cooked in salted water or steamed and then served whole, often with a little salt. Only the seeds inside the pods are eaten, and the pods themselves are non-food. Edamame have a delicate, slightly nutty flavour and crunchy texture. They are both nutritious and low in calories, making them a popular choice when choosing a sushi starters. They are a rich source of protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium and magnesium.

Prawns

Shrimps are often served with sushi in tempura form - lightly breaded and quickly fried, which gives them a crunchy attractive texture. They can also be served cold, for example dipped in a sauce or topped with lemon. Shrimps are a rich source of protein and contain a small amount of fat, as well as being a source of important minerals such as selenium. When consuming shrimps, it is important to be aware of possible shellfish allergies, as they are one of the more common allergens.

Grilled octopus

Grilling the octopus gives it a unique texture - the outer layer becomes slightly crispy, while the inside remains soft and juicy. Caramelisation on the grill enriches the flavour, adding depth and character. Grilled octopus as a sushi starter is often served with different sauces such as soy, garlic or various types of spicy dips. It can be served whole, sliced or as part of a more complex appetiser. Octopus is a rich source of protein and contains various vitamins and minerals, including iron, manganese and vitamin B12.

Other starters recommended for sushi

Other popular sushi starters is tempura-fried vegetables, traditional Japanese gyoza dumplings, fired wagyu beef slices with toppings, crab sticks, seaweed wakame served with sesame and soy sauce, as well as salads and soups.

Well-matched sushi starters enhance the flavour of the sushi and allow for a richer dining experience. They are perfect for elegant parties, making the menu served more versatile and varied. W Sushi Zushi we offer a wide selection of sushi starters. We invite you to visit our restaurants or to online orders!