There’s nothing quite like a delicious sushi dinner. It’s a popular style of food with thousands of varieties and endless combinations. What makes sushi even better is pairing it with the perfect sake.
If you’re looking to pair sushi and sake and take your meal to the next level, you’re at the right place. Read on for our guide to pairing sake and sushi, and wow your guests or your date on your next night out or dinner party.
Choose Your Priority Between Sushi and Sake
The first thing to decide when pairing sushi and sake is where you want to set your priorities. Your favorite type of sushi and your favorite type of sake might not pair well, so decide what you want to focus on first.
If you’re out for a nice dinner, you’ll probably want to choose your sushi first and based your sake on that. Consequently, if you’re going out for drinks and getting the sushi as a delicious snack, pick your favorite sake and then order the sushi that compliments it.
Let the Experts Help
While sushi isn’t traditionally paired with sake in Japan, it’s extremely popular in America, and a good sushi restaurant knows exactly which sake to pair with your sushi choices.
Since you often order your drinks before your food, make sure your servers know what types of sushi you’re leaning towards so that they can help you make an informed decision. If you’re going out for drinks, ask what sushi rolls go best with your favorite type of sake. You don’t always have to follow their advice, but a little help never hurts!
The Best Types of Sake for Sushi
If you aren’t familiar with different brands or flavor profiles of sake, it’s best to know what types of sake go well with the majority of sushi. That way when you’re perusing the restaurant menu or the aisles at the store, you can choose sake without worrying about ruining the sushi.
Junmai Ginjo and Ginjo sakes are generally the best choices for most types of sushi.
Ginjo sakes are more floral, light, and smooth, making them the perfect type of sake to complement a delicious, complex sushi dinner. If the food is your focus, Ginjo sake will complement the sushi without overpowering the flavors.
Junmai Ginjo sakes have a much more acidic flavor than Ginjo and tend to be richer and more umami. This type of sake pairs well with more acidic and rich sushi, and often contains a little sweetness. If you’re getting sushi that is primarily fish without all the extra fancy flavors, this flavorful sake is perfect for you.
Start Your Journey to Delicious Flavors
Now that you know how to pair sushi and sake, it’s time to go out and wow your friends. Whether you’re going on a fancy date or hosting a dinner party, this knowledge can help you immensely.
For more great articles on food, fitness, and plenty more, keep reading here, and enjoy your journey!
