Be a Star at the Sushi Bar was the title of the lecture. Who wouldn’t want to be a “Star” at the sushi bar I though to myself? So I accepted the invite and my good friend Beth (who also happens to be a dietitian) and I were on our way to see Trevor Corson speak about everything sushi. Trevor Corson, also know as America’s only “Sushi Concierge”, is a student of philosophy turned commercial fisherman turned author. It was abundantly clear listening to him talk that when it comes to the story of sushi, Trevor knows his stuff.
I was delighted to learn about the history and evolution of sushi told through his quirky experiences. I discovered some really interesting facts. Did you know sushi didn’t even originate in Japan, but in the northern part of what we now call Thailand? Or that it’s perfectly acceptable to eat sushi with your bare hands at even the most upscale sushi restaurants.
He told us that traditionally the Japanese considered tuna, the most popular sushi fish today, a garbage fish and that because of sushi’s huge popularity in the United States, blue fun tuna are actually on the verge of becoming an endangered species. I even learned that if you want to impress your sushi chef, be sure NOT to mix wasabi into your soy sauce. In fact, if you want to make a good impression and get the highest quality fish you’re better off avoiding them all together. Over seasoning with soy sauce and wasabi at the table masks the delicate flavors of the fish and a sushi chef doesn’t want to serve you his best fish if you aren’t even going to taste it.
In addition to being interesting and entertaining, Trevor emphasized sustainable sushi throughout his lecture. As the sushi trend continues and demand grows for fish like blue fin tuna and farm raised salmon, it will become critical for Americans to understand the impact sushi consumption has on these species and the environment. To learn more about sustainable sushi check out the Blue Ocean Institute website. There is a really cool guide called “Ocean Friendly Sushi” that you can download or order. They also have a feature where you can text “FISH” and the species name to 30644 for instant sustainability information.
If you love sushi like me and want to learn more about the history, traditions and etiquette then you can check out Trevor’s website or his latest book titled “The Story of Sushi”. I bought a copy after the lecture and I’m looking forward to starting it this weekend. I’ll be sure to let you know how it was as soon as I finish.
See you at the sushi bar!
- Lauren
Labels: Healthy Planet, Lauren, Product Review
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I can't eat sushi because I don't like fish, etc. But, I find the whole thing so fascinating and beautiful to see.
Thanks for the information.