Sushi is a famous Japanese dish made of vinegared rice and other ingredients like seafood, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits. It is a very popular dish in many parts of the world, including the United States. When it comes to what to drink with sushi, there are many options to choose from.
Some people might think that sake, or Japanese rice wine, is the only appropriate beverage to drink with sushi. However, many other options, like beer, wine, or ice tea, can be just as delicious and complimentary.
This article will explore some of the best beverages to drink with sushi and tips on what to avoid. So, without further ado, here are the best drinks to have with your sushi.
What To Drink With Sushi
When choosing a drink to have with sushi, it is important to avoid drinks that will overpower the delicate flavors of sushi.
Let’s have a look at some of the best drinks to have with sushi.
Sake
Sake is the traditional drink to have with sushi. It is a Japanese rice wine that is made through a fermentation process. Sake has a variety of different flavors, depending on the region it was made in and the ingredients used. It can be sweet, dry, or even slightly fruity.
Sake is usually served cold or at room temperature and is considered a very versatile drink. It can be paired with many different types of sushi, such as nigiri, maki, and sashimi.
If you are new to sake, it might be a good idea to start with a lower-priced bottle. This way, you can get an idea of what you like before splurging on a more expensive bottle.
Beer
Another popular beverage to drink with sushi is beer. There are many different types of beer, so choosing one that will pair well with the sushi you are eating is important.
A light beer, such as a lager or pilsner, is a good choice. These types of beers will not overpower the delicate flavors of sushi.
If you want to add something a little more flavorful, you could try a wheat beer or an amber ale. These types of beers have a slightly sweet flavor that can complement the sweetness of some sushi rolls.
Just be careful not to choose a beer that is too bitter or hoppy, as this can clash with the flavors of sushi.
Wine
Wine is another good option to drink with sushi. White wine is an excellent choice, as it will not overpower the delicate flavors of sushi. A dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, is a good option.
If you are confused about which red wine to choose with sushi, you should choose a lighter-bodied red wine. A Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais Nouveau would be a good choice. These types of wines will not overwhelm the flavors of sushi.
Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine, such as Champagne or Prosecco, is also a good choice to drink with sushi. The bubbles in sparkling wine can help cleanse your palate between bites of sushi.
It is important to note that you should avoid drinking sweet wines with sushi. The sweetness of the wine will not pair well with the flavors of sushi.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Many non-alcoholic beverages can be paired with sushi. One option is unsweetened iced tea. This beverage can help cleanse your palate and refresh your mouth between bites of sushi.
Another good choice is sparkling water or seltzer water. These beverages can also help to cleanse your palate and refresh your mouth.
Factors To Be Keen On
When it comes to what to drink with sushi, there are many things to consider. Here are a few factors to be keen on:
Pairing the Right Beverage With the Right Type of Sushi
Not all types of sushi go well with all kinds of beverages. Pairing the right beverage with the right type of sushi. For example, light beers or white wines are a good choice to drink with lighter sushi, such as nigiri or sashimi.
You might want to choose a slightly heavier beverage for heartier sushi, such as tempura or rolls with a lot of toppings. Wheat beer or an amber ale would be a good choice.
The Flavor of the Beverage
You should also consider the flavor when choosing a beverage to drink with sushi. You want to choose a beverage that will complement the flavors of the sushi, not clash with them.
For example, if you are eating nigiri sushi, you might want to avoid drinking red wine. The tannins in red wine can clash with the delicate flavor of the sushi.
The Alcohol Content of the Beverage
Another factor to consider is the alcohol content of the beverage. You want to choose a drink that will not cause you to become too full or drunk.
For example, if you are eating a lot of sushi, you might want to avoid drinking beer. Beer is a filling beverage, and you might feel too full to eat all of the sushi.
You could try sake or wine if you want to drink something with higher alcohol content. Just be sure to drink responsibly and not overdo it.
The Temperature of the Beverage
The temperature of the beverage is also important to consider. You want to choose a beverage that is the right temperature for the sushi you are eating.
For example, if you are eating nigiri sushi, you might want to avoid drinking iced tea. The cold temperature of iced tea numbs your taste buds and makes it difficult to taste the sushi.
On the other hand, if you are eating rolls, you might want to choose a beverage served cold or at room temperature. This will help to cool down your mouth after eating spicy sushi.
Conclusion
When it comes to what to drink with sushi, there are many things to consider. The most important factor is pairing the right beverage with the right type of sushi. For example, light beers or white wines are a good choice to drink with lighter sushi, such as nigiri or sashimi.
However, you might want to choose a slightly heavier beverage for heartier sushi, such as tempura or rolls with a lot of toppings. Other factors to consider are the beverage’s flavor, alcohol content, and temperature.
If you are unsure what to drink with your sushi, you can always ask your server for a recommendation. They will be able to help you choose a beverage that will complement your meal. Cheers!
