1. Sushi or Sashimi-Grade Fish
Despite popular belief, there is no official definition for the term "sushi-grade". The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not determine safety standards for raw fish.
In order for seafood to be safe for consumption in sushi, it must be frozen at under -4°F for a significant enough time to have killed any parasites.
Although many markets are starting to carry Sashimi-grade fish, you should not assume that all fish from your local market has gone through the necessary steps to destroy parasites. Do not assume that fish is safe to eat raw unless it is clearly labeled as "Sashimi-Grade".
2. Pouring Rice
Vegetables are your best opportunity for creativity when making sushi. Some popular fillings include cucumber, avocado, carrots and asparagus.
3. Short-Grained Rice
Typical long-grained rice used in many American dishes will not work for your sushi, as it will not take on the necessary, sticky consistency.
4. Rice Vinegar
For best results, use only Japanese rice vinegar.
There are several varieties of Seasoned rice vinegar, often made with sake, that can be used if desired.
5. Nori
Nori is a thin sheet of seaweed, ideal for rolling sushi. Nori can be ordered online through igourmet, Amazon.com, or purchased at Asian specialty stores.
6. Ginger Root
The ginger served alongside sushi is pickled and sliced thinly. This is called "Gari".
You can buy pre-made gari, or make it yourself from using rice vinegar, sugar, and ginger root.
Gari should be eaten between sushi courses to cleanse the palate. See the section below on making fresh gari.
7. Wasabi
Wasabi plants naturally grow only in certain river valleys of Japan. For this reason, buying fresh wasabi root can be quite expensive. In fact, there is a good chance that you have never tried real wasabi. The "wasabi" served typically at sushi restaurants is actually an imitation product made of horseradish and mustard seed.
The section below on making wasabi covers both versions of this food.
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8. Soy Sauce
Any common brand of soy sauce will work fine for your sushi.
Remember, do not pour the soy sauce over the sushi, and only dip it "fish-side-up".
You will also need the following accessories:
a. Sharp Knife
Any standard kitchen knife, kept sharp, will do, though you may want to get a special sushi knife. They can be purchased at any kitchen accessories store, or you can find them online at Amazon.com or compare prices through NexTag.
b. Bamboo Mat
Bamboo Mats are placed under your sushi and make it easier to roll. They can be purchased as part of a "sushi kit", which may also contain chopsticks, rice molds, and "how-to" books.
Credits:
Kami-chan.x3 &Mahalo
