We would tend to agree – if you want a truly authentic sushi experience, it’s hard to beat a few top-quality sashimi. If you ask a traditionalist, they may say that nigiri is a bit more traditional than sashimi, due to the purity and simplicity of the ingredients. The roll is chilled, and the smooth taste of the fish combines with the sticky and tangy flavor of the rice to create an absolutely superb mouthfeel. As the name implies, this is a small, delicious treat that features a thinly-sliced drapery of raw fish, laid over a cluster of sweet and salty vinegared rice. Nigiriĭirectly, Nigiri translates to “two fingers”. So what’s the difference – and which ones should you try? In this guide, we’ll explain all of the differences between nigiri and sashimi, so that you can open your mind – and your palate – to the unique, delicious flavor of sushi. In fact, it’s possible that eating a piece of firm salmon nigiri, paired with a delicious and traditional sake, is one of the best flavor experiences you can have – without spending money at a 4-star Michelin-rated restaurant!īeyond the contentiousness of raw fish, you may also be a bit confused about what the difference is between sashimi and nigiri – the two most common types of sushi – which may stop you from ordering sushi when you’re out to dinner. Not only is it totally safe it eat, it’s an absolutely unique culinary experience. Great sushi is made with the most fresh, high-quality fish like tuna and salmon. That’s why about 1 in 3 Americans refuse to try sushi.Īnd there is a bit of valid criticism there – most of us probably associate raw fish with supermarket fish counters, or frozen and uncooked fish filets, which are typically not the most high-quality fish on the market.īut if you – or anyone you know – refuses to try sushi because you don’t like the idea of eating raw fish, you’re missing out. “I don’t like raw fish, so why would I like sushi, or want to try it?” is a common complaint that you may hear. Given that it’s raw fish, this is perhaps not surprising – even the most adventurous Americans may refuse to try sushi. When it comes to food, there is no cuisine that is quite as divisive as sushi.