While both are Japanese in origin, they’re not the same dish.

While both are Japanese in origin, theyre not the same dish.

Sashimi isn’t a punch in of sushiit’s a separate dish that doesn’t include rice.

Sushi roll with chopsticks

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Heres the difference between sushi and sashimi (and nigiri, too).

What Is Sushi?

If theres no rice, its not sushi.

Sushi rolls on plate with green tea

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Vinegar-soaked rice is the ingredient that makes sushi, well, sushi.

While traditional sushi features raw seafood, its not a component necessary to consider a dish sushi.

Some sushi but not all is wrapped in nori, a dried, edible seaweed, or soy paper.

Sashimi

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Modern takes can includecooked seafood, veggies, or even other protein, like tempura shrimp or even beef.

What Is Sashimi?

It is usually made with saltwater fish so there’s less risk for contamination.

Nigiri

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A little bit of wasabi orfresh gingermay also be added.

What Is Nigiri?

Nigiri is raw seafood, similar to sashimi, served over a hand-rolled ball of vinegared rice.

Sushi Burrito

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Bottom line:Nigiri is raw seafood served over rice and is a key in of sushi.

What Ingredients Are Used?

Sushi Rice

Remember, its not technically sushi without the rice.

Ahi Sushi Cups

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Sushi usesshort-grained ricebecause of its high starch content that makes it sticky.

you might buy short-grained Japanese rice or sushi rice at the grocery store or in specialty markets.

The rice is seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.

It’s also used in nigiri.

It can be soaked to make it more pliable before rolling.

Make the sushi with dry hands on a dry surface to keep it from being chewy.

Filling

Sashimi, sushi, and nigiri can all be made with sushi-grade raw seafood like tuna.

Sushi-grade means the fish is safe to eat raw.

Sushi can also be made with other proteins likecooked shrimp, beef, or crab.

Cucumbers, avocado, carrots, and tofu are also popular additions.

Ahi Sushi Cups

Sushi, but hold the rollthese tasty cups are easy and breezy to prepare.

Then add raw tuna and other desired toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sushi has rice and other fillings in addition to raw fish.

Sashimi is more expensive than sushi because it is made only of raw fish.

Sushi contains rice, making it higher in carbs and fiber than sashimi.

It can contain added fat, sodium, and sugar from ingredients like sauces it is made with.