What is sushi?

Beginning as a method of preserving fish centuries ago, sushi has evolved into an artful, unique dining experience. In its earliest form, dried fish was placed between two pieces of vinegared rice as a way of making it last. The nori (seaweed) was added later as a way to keep one's fingers from getting sticky.

Technically, the word ‘sushi’ refers to rice, but colloquially, the term is used to describe a finger-size piece of raw fish or shellfish on a bed of vinegared rice or simply the consumption or raw fish in the Japanese style (while sushi is not solely a Japanese invention, these days, the Japanese style is considered the de facto serving standard).

Maki-zushi

The rice and seaweed rolls with fish and/or vegetables. There are also more specific terms for the rolls depending on the style.

Nigiri-zushi

The little fingers of rice topped with wasabi and a filet of raw or cooked fish or shellfish. Gener­ally the most common form of sushi you will see.

Temaki-zushi

Also called a hand-roll. Cones of sushi rice, fish and vegetables wrapped in seaweed. It is very similar to maki.

Sashimi

Sashimi is raw fish served sliced, but as-is. That means no rice bed or roll, but it is often served alongside daikon and/or shiso. This is my favorite style as you really get the flavor of the fish.

Quick And Easy Sushi cookbook

This book has great pictures, however it is not as complete as Sushi Made Easy.

Sushi For Parties: Maki-Zushi And Nigiri-Sushi

This book also has great pictures, with advanced maki (cut roll) making techniques.

Sushi Made Easy

A very decent all-around book for the money.