Edamame – Although it may not be actual sushi, edamame is one of the most popular appetizers to order at sushi restaurants. It looks like a mound of pea pods and will come in a bowl covered with salt, with an extra bowl for discarding the shells. The correct way to eat it is to dip one of the beans in soy sauce, bite a small slit or hole in the top of the shell and squeeze out the soybeans. The green shell is then discarded. This is a good appetizer for beginners because the texture and saltiness of the beans is reminiscent of roasted pumpkin seeds.
Spicy Tuna Roll – The name says it all. Though it may seem simple, consisting of only tuna and a spicy sauce, this small roll is definitely worth trying. Be prepared for a bit of a kick from the spiciness of the sauce.
Philadelphia Roll – Smoked salmon, cream cheese and cucumber make up this common roll. Its familiar ingredients make it popular among beginners. This roll is especially good if you are wary about trying raw fish because the taste of cream cheese balances out the salty taste of the salmon.
California Roll – This is the most popular makisushi roll among beginners. Made of avocado, crab and cucumber, the taste is not as strong and salty as some of the other types of makisushi. The contrasting textures of the crunchy cucumber and creamy avocado provide a perfect blend to this roll. The crab is a safe choice for those looking to avoid overbearing saltiness that some other fish offers.
Shrimp Tempura – Because the fish element of these rolls is deep-fried shrimp, these rolls are recommended for beginners because they can serve as a stepping stone to actual raw fish. Avocado and cucumber are commonly found in this roll, and many restaurants also like to add their own house sauce.
Spider Roll – Deep fried, soft shell crab is featured in this roll. Cucumber, avocado, sprouts and a house sauce that is usually the same sauce used for the spicy tuna roll typically make up this large roll.
Temaki Rolls – “Temaki” literally means “hand-rolled” in Japanese, and these rolls received their name from the preparation technique used in assembling them. Instead of tiny bite-sized pieces, temaki rolls are hand-rolled and are shaped similar to six to 10 inch long cones. Because of their size, it is customary to use your hands to eat temaki rolls instead of chopsticks.
