What Goes With Sushi? Discover the Perfect Pairings for a Delicious Dinner!

Sushi has become a staple in many people’s diets, known for its delicious and beautifully crafted rolls. But have you ever found yourself asking, “What goes with sushi for dinner?” While sushi may be the star of the show, there are plenty of complementary dishes and drinks that can take your meal to the next level. In this article, we will explore some of the best accompaniments to sushi, from traditional Japanese sides to unexpected pairings that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, read on to discover the perfect complements for your next sushi feast.

Sushi is a popular and beloved Japanese dish that has gained immense popularity worldwide. It has become a staple in many households and is commonly enjoyed for lunch or dinner. While sushi is often the main attraction at meal times, sometimes it may leave you wondering what else to serve alongside it. In this article, we will explore various options for what goes with sushi for dinner.

The Different Types of Sushi

Before diving into what complements sushi, it is essential to understand the different types of sushi available. The most common type is nigiri sushi, which consists of bite-sized portions of fish placed on top of a ball of seasoned rice. Maki rolls are another popular type, which consists of seafood, vegetables, or other ingredients rolled in seaweed and rice. Some other types include sashimi (slices of raw fish) and temaki (hand-rolled sushi). It is essential to consider the type of sushi you will be serving when deciding on accompanying dishes.

Traditional Japanese Side Dishes

One traditional Japanese side dish that pairs well with sushi is miso soup. Miso soup is a flavorful broth made from fermented soybeans and can be accompanied by tofu, seaweed, or other vegetables. This warm and comforting soup adds depth to any sushi meal.

Another classic side dish that goes well with sushi is edamame. These soybeans are boiled in water and lightly salted, making them a healthy snack that complements the flavors of sushi well.

For those looking for a vegetarian option, tempura vegetables are an excellent choice to pair with sushi dishes. Tempura vegetables are battered and deep-fried, providing a crispy texture that contrasts well with the softness of sushi.

Freshly Grilled Seafood

Since seafood plays such an essential role in traditional Japanese cuisine, it comes as no surprise that freshly grilled seafood is a popular pairing for sushi. Grilled fish such as salmon, tuna, or eel can complement the seafood flavors found in sushi. Additionally, grilled shrimp and scallops are also excellent options.

Grilled vegetables also make for tasty side dishes when served alongside sushi. Zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms are great choices to cook on a grill and add to your sushi dinner.

Hot Dishes

While sushi is typically served cold or at room temperature, adding some hot dishes to your dinner spread can make for a more filling meal. One popular dish is gyoza, which are Japanese dumplings filled with meat and vegetables and served steamed or fried. These dumplings add a savory and comforting element to any sushi meal.

Another hot dish to consider is yakitori, which consists of skewered chicken pieces cooked over a charcoal grill. Yakitori adds some protein to the meal while also providing a burst of flavorful charred goodness.

Fruit-Based Dishes

Fruits make for an unexpected but delicious accompaniment to sushi meals. Many fruits have refreshing qualities that can balance out the rich flavors of sushi. Pineapple slices or chunks provide a tropical twist while watermelon adds a touch of sweetness. Additionally, grapes or strawberries add bursts of freshness that go well with sushi rolls.

Alcoholic Beverages

Some alcoholic beverages are known to pair well with different types of sushi dishes. Light-bodied white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complement milder types of sushi like nigiri or sashimi well.

A classic choice for an alcoholic beverage with sushi is sake, a Japanese rice wine that pairs well with all types of sushi due to its clean and slightly sweet taste.

For beer lovers, a light beer such as Asahi or Sapporo goes well with most types of sushi. The crisp and refreshing taste of these beers counterbalances the umami flavors found in sushi dishes.

In conclusion, there are many different options for what goes well with sushi for dinner. Traditional side dishes like miso soup and edamame, as well as freshly grilled seafood, make for tasty pairings. Hot dishes like gyoza and yakitori add some warmth to the meal, while fruits and alcoholic beverages bring freshness and balance to the flavors of sushi. With these options in mind, you can create a well-rounded and delicious sushi dinner experience.

Common Sushi Accompaniments

When it comes to enjoying a delicious sushi dinner, it’s important to have some key accompaniments to enhance the overall experience. While sushi can certainly stand on its own, pairing it with the right sides and condiments can take your dinner to the next level. Here are some of the most common and traditional accompaniments for sushi that you won’t want to miss out on.

Soy Sauce

One of the most essential components of a sushi dinner is soy sauce. This salty, savory condiment is made from fermented soybeans and wheat, giving it a rich umami flavor that complements sushi perfectly. Soy sauce is typically used as a dipping sauce for rolls or nigiri, but can also be mixed with wasabi for a spicy kick. When choosing soy sauce for your sushi dinner, opt for a higher quality variety like Shoyu or Tamari for the best flavor.

Wasabi

Known as “Japanese horseradish,” wasabi is a spicy green paste that is often served alongside sushi. It has a pungent and peppery flavor that adds heat and depth to the dishes it accompanies. While many may associate wasabi with its bright green color, it’s actually quite rare to find real wasabi root in most restaurants. Most often, what we are served as “wasabi” is actually a combination of horseradish, mustard powder, and food coloring. However, if you’re dining at a high-end sushi restaurant or in Japan itself, you may be lucky enough to try real wasabi.

Ginger

Pickled ginger, or gari as it’s known in Japanese cuisine, is another common side dish for sushi dinners. It’s thinly sliced ginger that has been marinated in sugar and vinegar, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor. Ginger is typically served alongside sushi to cleanse the palate between different types of rolls or nigiri. Not only does it provide a refreshing contrast to the flavors of sushi, but it also aids in digestion.

Tempura

While not as traditional as other accompaniments, tempura has become a popular addition to sushi dinners in many restaurants. Tempura is a Japanese style of frying where vegetables or seafood are battered and deep-fried until crispy. Common tempura ingredients for sushi dinners include shrimp, sweet potato, and vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. It’s a delicious and satisfying way to add some extra depth to your sushi dinner.

Soup

In traditional Japanese cuisine, soup is commonly served at the beginning of a meal as an appetizer. When it comes to enjoying sushi for dinner, miso soup is often the soup of choice. Miso is a paste made from fermented soybeans, and when combined with broth, gives this soup its signature rich and savory flavor. Miso soup can be enjoyed on its own or alongside sushi as an additional course.

Side Dishes

Aside from condiments and soup, there are many other dishes that can be enjoyed alongside your sushi dinner. Edamame, or steamed soybeans, make for a tasty and healthy side dish. Seaweed salad is another popular choice that adds some texture and nutrients to your meal. And for those looking for something heartier, donburi bowls – white rice topped with various meats or vegetables – make for an excellent side dish.

Beverages

No dinner would be complete without something to drink, and with sushi dinners being so flavorful and varied in taste, there are many beverage options that pair well with them. Traditional Japanese beverages like sake – fermented rice wine – or green tea are commonly enjoyed with sushi. For those looking for something more familiar, beer or white wine also pair nicely with sushi dinners.

Creating the Perfect Sushi Dinner Experience

Pairing your sushi dinner with the right accompaniments can truly take your dining experience to the next level. Whether it’s traditional condiments like soy sauce and wasabi, or sides like tempura and soup, finding the perfect combination of flavors will elevate your enjoyment of sushi. With so many delicious options to choose from, there’s no wrong way to create a memorable and satisfying sushi dinner.

Q: What are some traditional side dishes served with sushi for dinner?
A: Some common accompaniments to sushi include miso soup, edamame, gyoza, and seaweed salad.

Q: Are there any vegetarian or vegan options that go well with sushi?
A: Yes, some popular choices include vegetable tempura, avocado rolls, and cucumber salad.

Q: Is it customary to serve any type of sauce with sushi for dinner?
A: Yes, soy sauce is typically served with sushi for dipping. Wasabi and pickled ginger are also commonly served as condiments.

Q: Can I pair wine with sushi for dinner?
A: While wine is not a traditional pairing with sushi, some red wines such as Pinot Noir can complement the flavors of certain types of fish. Sake is a more commonly paired beverage with sushi.

Q: How can I make sure my sushi dinner is well-balanced in terms of nutrition?
A: To ensure a balanced meal, be sure to include both raw fish and cooked varieties in your selection. Add in some vegetables like cucumber or avocado for added nutrients and consider ordering a variety of rolls to get a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Q: Are there any foods that should not be eaten alongside sushi for dinner?
A: It is generally considered improper etiquette to eat pickled ginger at the same time as your sushi. It is also recommended to not mix wasabi into soy sauce before dipping your sushi. Instead, add small amounts of wasabi directly to the individual pieces before eating.

In conclusion, there are many options for what to serve with sushi for dinner. From traditional Japanese sides like miso soup and edamame to more modern additions like avocado and spicy mayo, there is something for every palate. When selecting accompaniments for sushi, it is important to consider balance in flavors and textures. The key is to enhance the overall dining experience by providing complementary flavors and varying textures that elevate the sushi. Furthermore, it is essential to keep in mind the quality and freshness of ingredients, as well as personal preferences when deciding on the perfect pairings. Keeping an open mind and experimenting with different combinations can lead to discovering new and delicious ways to enjoy sushi. Ultimately, whether choosing traditional or modern accompaniments, the overall goal should be to create a well-rounded meal that satisfies both the taste buds and the appetite. So next time you’re enjoying some sushi for dinner, remember to think outside the roll and try some new and exciting side dishes. Your taste buds will thank you!

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.