Sushi is a meal that originated in Southeast Asia, Japan particularly, a long time ago. It has become quite popular all around the world. It is made with a kind of rice treated with vinegar. Lovers of sushi place a lot of importance on the appearance of the served sushi. The making of sushi is considered an art form, and as such, much emphasis is placed on the look of its final form when served. This includes the setting of the meal itself, the setting of the table and the utensils and tableware used in the serving. Chief among these is the plate used.
Sushi plates are relatively new inventions (for lack of a better word), coming into being after the introduction of sushi to Europe and America. They are designed to be used in the serving and presentation of sushi. Although any plate can be used to serve sushi, most people who eat it prefer to use specialized plates in keeping up with the culture, and for the convenience it offers, as the plates are more ideally suited to serving sushi than the ordinary plates are.
Sushi plates are generally square or rectangular, though they may come in any shape. They usually have depressions, which hold condiments, which are served as part of the meal. Some though lack the depressions and are smooth, to contain arrangements of sushi, instead coming with matching condiment bowls and plates. In this case, a set of plates are served, including the bowls and plates accompanying the main plate.
They also come in a number of shapes. While some are designed for personal use, having just enough space for one person, others are designed for communal use, with several eating from a plate at the same time. The colors and themes of the plates change according to the season. They are usually designed to complement the food served on them without been domineering.
Different materials are used in the making of sushi plates, but the most popular of all is porcelain. Other materials used include wood, lacquer, stone, earth and plastics. Many sushi restaurants prefer the plastic varieties, as they are cheaper to get and maintain than the others. High-class restaurants however favor the wood and lacquer varieties, as they are more traditional.
People who serve sushi have the options of either having several sets of plates so rotation can take place, according to the season and mood, or they could maintain a single set of neutrally designed plates, which are usable all year long. Matching chopstick holders, condiment dishes and other accessories like cups for tea and pots for sake (a Japanese wine made from rice) can be gotten to complete the sushi plate set.
Sushi plates can be found in many import stores and Asian markets. They are also available in specialty cutlery stores. However, shopping online might just be the best bet when looking for plates. This is because there is a wider range to choose from and they are generally cheaper, since they are usually listed at the manufacturer’s price. Some of the stores that offer the plates for sale are:
• Amazon: the sushi plate collection on the catalogue at amazon.com is quite large and with a wide range of choices to choose from. All styles and shape available can found on the site and they are at premium prices too.
• Etsy: etsy.com is an artisan community that offers handmade and vintage items. They offer a unique range of sushi plates that cannot be found anywhere else and at great prices too.
• Mysushiset: the website, mysushiset.com offers the largest collection of sushi sets and plates on the internet, at very affordable prices.
• Vikki Smyth: Vikki Smyth is a designer who designs and manufactures her own plates. On her site vikkismyth.com, you will find a lot of unique sushi plates and other accessories. The prices are lower than most retail stores (since she is the manufacturer) and many of the products are given at discounted prices. Therefore, this is as good a place as any to get your supply of utensils for making and serving sushi.
Chefs who prepare sushi know the importance of the appearance of the dish, and this affects the overall satisfaction of the people eating the meal. Sushi is known as one of the most visually appealing foods today. Thus, you will have to get the right sushi plates and accessories in order to pull off a good meal. This could be the most important part of the meal.
