If you think sushi is just about raw fish, think again! When you open a sushi menu, you'll be amazed at how many varieties there are. From familiar rolls to more refined and intricate types like nigiri, it can be a lot to take in.

But don't worry, this article will help you navigate the sushi world and introduce you to 9 different types of sushi that go beyond your typical California roll.

Whether you're a sushi lover or new to the world of sushi, we'll break it down for you and help you appreciate the diversity and history behind this Japanese delicacy. You'll soon see that sushi is much more than just fish on rice.

What is Sushi?

Sushi is made with vinegared rice, often accompanied by seafood, vegetables, or even egg. There are endless ways to pair different types of seafood with vinegar-seasoned rice, making sushi a versatile and beloved dish. Over time, both within Japan and internationally, sushi has evolved, with new variations emerging to suit adventurous tastes. From traditional to modern twists, there's something for everyone.

9 Unique Types of Sushi You Should Try

Now let's dive into 9 unique types of sushi that you might not be familiar with. Some of them are quite popular, while others have deep cultural roots that might surprise you.

1. Nigiri Sushi

First up, we have the most famous type: nigiri sushi. This consists of a small mound of vinegared rice topped with a slice of raw fish, usually salmon or tuna. You might even find cooked fish or vegetables in place of raw fish. It's simple but delicious, perfect for anyone new to sushi. If you want to learn how to make nigiri sushi yourself, try joining a sushi-making class in Tokyo!

2. Maki Rolls

Maki rolls are probably the sushi type you're most familiar with. These rolls combine fish, vegetables, and rice all wrapped in nori (seaweed). There are so many variations of maki rolls, each catering to different tastes. Whether you prefer simple ingredients or something more exotic, there's a maki roll for you!

Different Types of Maki Rolls

Thick Rolls (Futomaki)

One of the classic maki rolls is futomaki, which is thicker and typically made with ingredients like cucumber, omelet strips, and shiitake mushrooms. It's a favorite for festive occasions and perfect for packing in bento boxes or bringing to parties.

Thin Rolls (Hosomaki)

Hosomaki is the simplest type of maki roll. It's small and contains just one ingredient, such as cucumber, salmon, or tuna. While it's the most basic roll, it's also one of the most loved because of its simplicity.

Hand Rolls (Temaki)

Temaki is a cone-shaped hand roll that's made by wrapping ingredients like fish, rice, and vegetables in seaweed. It's typically eaten by hand, making it a fun and easy option for a casual sushi meal at home.

Inside-Out Rolls (Uramaki)

Uramaki is a roll where the rice is on the outside and the nori wraps around the filling. This style of sushi, which originated in Los Angeles, became especially popular in the U.S., with the famous California roll being a prime example. Though less common in Japan, it's still widely enjoyed.

3. Chirashi Sushi

Chirashi sushi, or "scattered sushi," is a dish made by placing vinegared rice in a bowl and topping it with various raw fish and other ingredients. The fish often includes tuna and salmon, and the dish is usually garnished with thin omelet strips, seaweed, and fish roe. It's a great option for gatherings since it can be made as a large platter to share.

4. Inari Sushi

Inari sushi is a sweet variation of sushi. Unlike other types, the rice is placed inside a pouch of deep-fried tofu, which gives it a unique flavor. It's not considered a dessert in Japan, but it's a delicious option often found in bento boxes or as a side dish in sushi restaurants.

5. Temari Sushi

Temari sushi is a fun and cute variation of sushi that's shaped like small balls. The name comes from the traditional Japanese toy called "temari," which is a decorated ball. These bite-sized sushi pieces are often topped with fish, making them both visually appealing and tasty.

6. Gunkan Maki (Battleship Sushi)

Gunkan maki, also known as "battleship sushi," gets its name from its shape. It's made by wrapping a piece of nori around a mound of rice, and it's often topped with roe or sea urchin. If you love unique textures and flavors, gunkan maki is a must-try!

7. Narezushi (Fermented Sushi)

Narezushi is a more traditional and less common type of sushi. It involves fermenting fish in rice, a practice that dates back to the origins of sushi. Though the rice is discarded, the fish is eaten and has a distinct, fermented taste that is a real treat for adventurous eaters.

8. Oshizushi (Pressed Sushi)

Oshizushi is a type of pressed sushi that originated in Osaka. This style of sushi involves pressing fish and vinegared rice together in a wooden box to create a compact, rectangular shape. It's one of the oldest forms of sushi and is still enjoyed today.

9. Sasazushi

Finally, we have sasazushi, a rural-style sushi from Niigata and Nagano Prefectures. It's made by placing vegetables on sushi rice and wrapping it in a bamboo leaf, making it a healthy and fresh alternative to traditional sushi types.

Try Them All!

As you can see, there's much more to sushi than just nigiri and maki rolls. From the classic to the unconventional, these 9 types of sushi offer a world of flavors and textures for you to explore. Whether you're trying something new at a sushi restaurant or learning how to make it yourself at a cooking class in Japan, there's always something exciting to discover in the world of sushi!

So, Lykkers, which sushi type are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below!