What is the difference between eastern sushi and western sushi?

While both Eastern and Western sushi share the basic concept of vinegared rice topped with various ingredients, there are some key differences in their styles and preparation:

Eastern Sushi (Mainly Japanese):

* Emphasis on freshness and seasonality: Japanese sushi prioritizes using the freshest, seasonal ingredients, often sourced locally.

* Traditional techniques: Traditional techniques like hand-rolling with a bamboo mat (makisu) and careful knife skills are emphasized.

* Variety of styles: Japanese sushi encompasses a wide range of styles, including:

* Nigiri: Hand-formed rice topped with raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, or egg.

* Makizushi: Sushi rolls with rice and fillings wrapped in seaweed (nori).

* Temaki: Cone-shaped hand rolls filled with rice and ingredients.

* Inarizushi: Sushi rice stuffed into deep-fried tofu pockets.

* Chirashizushi: A bowl of sushi rice topped with a variety of ingredients.

* Subtle flavors: Japanese sushi focuses on subtle flavors and delicate seasoning, highlighting the natural taste of the ingredients.

* Formal presentation: Sushi is often presented with a minimalist aesthetic, emphasizing the beauty of the ingredients.

Western Sushi:

* More accessible and diverse: Western sushi often uses ingredients that are more familiar and readily available in the West. This can include ingredients like cream cheese, avocado, and mayonnaise, which are less common in traditional Japanese sushi.

* Fusion styles: Western sushi incorporates various fusion elements, combining sushi with other cuisines like Mexican, Italian, or American.

* Larger portions and bolder flavors: Western sushi often has larger portions and bolder flavors than traditional Japanese sushi.

* Less emphasis on tradition: Western sushi often deviates from traditional techniques and focuses on creating innovative and unique dishes.

* More casual presentation: Western sushi is often presented in a less formal and more casual manner, with a focus on practicality.

Summary:

While both Eastern and Western sushi share the basic concept of vinegared rice topped with various ingredients, Eastern sushi emphasizes tradition, freshness, and subtle flavors, while Western sushi focuses on accessibility, fusion, and bolder flavors. It's important to note that these are generalizations, and there is a great deal of diversity within both styles.