Tag: Sushi rice

As a nutrient-dense marine algae packed with iodine and vitamins, nori seaweed is an excellent addition to a plant-based diet. For those wondering, is seaweed in sushi vegetarian, the definitive answer is that the nori itself is completely plant-based.

Some restaurant sushi rolls can contain over 900mg of sodium per serving, a fact that raises a critical question for many health-conscious diners: is sushi rice OK for a low-sodium diet? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, as the rice itself contributes only a moderate amount of salt compared to other ingredients and condiments.

While brown rice is lauded in many Western countries for its nutritional benefits, historically and culturally, Japanese cuisine has favored polished white rice. This preference is not due to a lack of understanding of brown rice, but is deeply rooted in culinary tradition, taste, and a long-standing association with social status.

Traditional sushi rice is made from short-grain white rice, which is naturally low in FODMAPs and gluten-free. So, is sushi rice FODMAP friendly? The answer is generally yes, but with some important considerations about how it's prepared and what it's served with.

Contrary to a popular misconception, the word 'sushi' actually refers to the vinegared rice, not the raw fish it is often served with. This key fact means that for vegans, enjoying sushi often comes down to the rice itself.

A single specialty sushi roll can contain over 10 grams of added sugar, hidden not just in sweet sauces but also within the rice itself. So, are there added sugars in sushi? The answer is a surprising yes, making mindful ordering key for health-conscious diners.

Despite the popular perception that Japanese food is inherently sugar-free, many traditional recipes call for various types of sugar as a fundamental seasoning. While Japanese candies are often less sweet than their Western counterparts, hidden sugars are commonly found in sauces, marinades, and even sushi rice.

Research has shown that cooling cooked starchy foods like white rice can significantly increase their content of a beneficial dietary fiber called resistant starch. This crucial fact means that while freshly made sushi rice is not a prebiotic, the classic method of cooking and cooling it for sushi preparation is exactly what makes it a powerhouse for gut health.

According to traditional Japanese methods, sushi rice is not cooked with sugar, but it is seasoned with a mixture containing it after cooking. This seasoning, a blend of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, is what gives sushi rice its distinctive sweet and tangy flavor, contrasting the plainness of unseasoned rice.

While the term "glutinous rice" might suggest otherwise, all varieties of Japanese rice are naturally gluten-free. This means that the sticky, short-grain rice used in sushi and other Japanese dishes is safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, as long as it's not contaminated during processing or preparation.