Sushi facts

Sushi originated outside of Japan. Although sushi is now entirely associated with Japanese culture, its true inspiration is believed to have begun in Southeast Asia. Narezushi, known as fermented fish wrapped in sour rice, is thought to have originated in the Mekong River region before spreading to China and later to Japan.

Women in the profession of sushi chefs are rare. In the past, women were excluded from making sushi because it was believed that their higher body temperature and perfume could ruin the fresh taste and quality of the fish. Today, things are different.

Japanese knives used in sushi preparation are typically sharpened on one side, while the other side of the blade remains flat, creating a cleaner edge that’s ideal for cutting fish.

The most expensive sushi is said to cost up to $2,000 — a five-piece set wrapped in 24-karat gold leaf and decorated with real diamonds.

Sushi was traditionally eaten with hands, not chopsticks.

Sushi was once cheap fast food. Unlike today, when sushi is often served in upscale restaurants, it was originally an inexpensive, quick snack meant to be eaten with the hands.

While sushi is often served with raw seafood, modern chefs sometimes use vegetables as the main ingredient instead of fish or other seafood.