National Sushi Day

A woman in a traditional Japanese kimono using chopsticks to enjoy a colorful plate of sushi rolls, surrounded by cherry blossom trees.. — National sushi day illustration

Hey there sushi lovers! Get ready to celebrate National Sushi Day, a day dedicated to all things delicious and seaweed-wrapped. Grab your chopsticks and join us in exploring the history and wonders of this amazing Japanese dish!

When is Sushi Day?

It's national sushi day on the 18th June.

A Tasty Tradition

Sushi has become one of the most popular dishes around the world, but its origins can be traced back to Japan. Dating back to the 8th century, sushi started as a way to preserve fish by fermenting it with rice. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that sushi evolved into the form we know and devour today.

Thanks to the creation of refrigeration and the advancement of transportation, sushi became available to a wider audience. It quickly gained popularity in Japan and eventually made its way to other parts of the world.

Sushi Goes Viral

In this age of social media, National Sushi Day has become a sensation online. With 1606 mentions detected, it's clear that people can't resist sharing their love for this culinary masterpiece. And on 18 Jun 2015, social media exploded with sushi-related posts!

Did You Know?

Did you know that sushi rolls, like the popular California Roll, were actually created in the United States? In the 1960s, a sushi chef in Los Angeles decided to create a sushi roll using avocado, cucumber, and crab meat. This fusion dish quickly became a hit and eventually spread to other sushi restaurants around the world.

So whether you prefer classic nigiri, delicate sashimi, or creative sushi rolls, National Sushi Day is the perfect time to indulge in this flavorful and healthy delicacy. Grab your favorite sushi chef or head to your favorite sushi spot and celebrate this day in true foodie fashion!

History behind the term 'Sushi'

8th century

The Beginnings

During the 8th century in Japan, the earliest form of sushi emerged. Known as narezushi, it consisted of salted fish that was fermented with rice. The rice was used to preserve the fish and was discarded before consumption. This method allowed fish to be stored for months at a time and became an essential source of sustenance for travelers and fishermen.

15th century

The Birth of Makizushi

In the 15th century, the innovation of makizushi, or rolled sushi, took place. This culinary advancement involved wrapping fish and rice in dried seaweed, known as nori. The resulting cylinder shape made it easier to eat and opened up new possibilities for combining ingredients. Makizushi became a popular street food enjoyed by the common people.

17th century

The Invention of Nigirizushi

Nigirizushi, or hand-pressed sushi, was invented in the 17th century. The technique involved forming bite-sized rice mounds and topping them with slices of raw or cooked fish. This method allowed the natural flavors of the fish to shine and created a delicate balance of textures. Nigirizushi quickly gained popularity and became synonymous with sushi.

19th century

Sushi Spreads Internationally

During the 19th century, sushi started to gain global recognition. In 1824, Japanese immigrants introduced nigirizushi to the United States, specifically in Hawaii. As international trade expanded, sushi began to make its way to other countries. It gained popularity as a unique and exotic delicacy, enticing adventurous eaters worldwide.

20th century

Sushi Evolution and Popularity

In the 20th century, sushi underwent significant evolution and surged in popularity. Modern refrigeration techniques allowed for the use of fresh fish, making sushi safer to consume. The creation of the California Roll in the 1960s marked a pivotal moment in sushi's global acceptance. This innovative roll replaced raw fish with avocado, cucumber, and crabmeat, catering to Western palates.

21st century

Sushi to Sushi Boom

The 21st century saw an explosion in the popularity of sushi worldwide. Sushi restaurants expanded rapidly, not only in Japan but also in various culinary scenes around the globe. Embracing both traditional and fusion styles, sushi became a global phenomenon, representing an appreciation for artistry, freshness, and culinary traditions.