The Sushi of Old
In ancient China, fish was put into rice and kept months to ferment. When ready, the fish is eaten and the rice thrown out. It came to Japanese shores by the 7th century and the seafood-loving people ate both the fish and the rice. In the 17th century, an enterprising merchant in Edo (modern day Tokyo) decided to season the rice with rice wine vinegar so it can be eaten right away when he sells it. By early 19th century, it became popular to have the fresh fish atop roll-shaped seasoned rice – the way we eat sushi these days. While a snack food then and sold at stalls around Japan, the end of WWII saw the humble sushi moved from stalls to indoors. It has become very popular and, over time, evolved from plainness to exquisite dish.
Modern Sushi
Sushi continues to evolve into the modern era with the traditional sushi restaurants competing side-by-side with fusion establishments. Japanese fusion restaurants are more daring, more willing to try combinations, replacing ingredients with others that bring out a cornucopia of flavors and textures. Western influences further enriched sushi and many find the integration appealing, delicious.
Even with the proliferation of sushi bars, find this Lynnwood Japanese restaurant – Wild Wasabi – offering bold and even stunning sushi offerings in elegant plating at affordable prices. It belies its small, casual setting, but it’s one of the highly rated spots in town. It is a must visit when you’re in Lynnwood.