Where does sushi come from?

Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish that has been around for centuries. It is made with vinegared rice, raw fish, and vegetables and is often served with soy sauce, wasabi and pickled ginger. Over time, sushi has evolved and spread around the world, becoming a popular cuisine in many countries. In this blog I. Stelio will tell you more about the history of sushi. 

Origins of sushi

The origins of sushi hark back to Southeast Asia’s traditional fish preservation method, akin to Inhambane’s rural practices where fish is layered with salt for conservation. This ancient technique involved packing fish with salted, cooled cooked rice, allowing it to be stored for long periods. As the rice fermented over time, the fish remained preserved.

This method journeyed to Japan, evolving into today’s sushi. Initially, only the fish was eaten and the rice discarded. By the 17th century, the Japanese began enjoying the fermented rice with raw fish, giving rise to the sushi that is now a global phenomenon.

Styles of sushi

As sushi became more popular in Japan, different styles of sushi began to emerge. One popular style is nigiri sushi, which is made with a small ball of rice topped with a slice of raw fish. Another style is maki sushi, which is made by rolling rice and fish in seaweed.

As sushi spread around the world, it began to evolve even further. In Mozambique for example, I have created unique, very delicious sushi rolls such as the 'Mathapah' roll, which is made out of cassava leaves and Dzithogomah. This is a rare and highly delicious shellfish (crustacean) that can only be found in Inhambane.

Sushi catering Maputo

I have been running my own private sushi catering business since 2018 in Maputo, Mozambique where I became a renowned chef. My passion for sushi began in Tofo where I worked and began my apprenticeship.

After my time at Hotel Tofo-Mar in Tofo, I have worked at various sushi restaurants for many years prior to creating my own business. While I was still in Tofo, I often received requests from satisfied clients.

The same thing continued to happen when I moved to Maputo and I would prepare sushi for them in their homes on my days off.  This is what made me to decide to establish my business 'Chef Stelio' in Maputo,

"... This gives my sushi a unique flavour that can’t be found anywhere else!"

Mozambican sushi

I love creating innovative sushi rolls that blend the traditional Japanese art with a bit of the local ingredients, which is a bit of the flavours of Mozambique.

Matapha roll

One such innovation being the 'Matapha' roll, which contains Dzithogomah as an ingredient. Dzithogomah is a rare and highly delicious shellfish (crustacean) that can only be found in Inhambane.

Prawn roll

Another one of my most popular rolls is the Prawn roll, which is made with Kewpie Mayo and spicy Mozambican piri-piri sauce.

I also use local seafood like tuna, lobster and crab when the fishermen have those available for me. This gives my sushi a unique flavour that can’t be found anywhere else.

You can be certain that my sushi is delicious and original and it's a blend of the Japanese sushi art with a Mozambican twist.

Future of sushi

Sushi has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a way to preserve fish. Today, it is a popular cuisine enjoyed in Tofo, Vilanculos, Beira, Nampula and many more areas along the Mozambican coastline.

When chefs like myself continue to put our own spin on the dish, we can expect to see even more unique and delicious sushi creations in the future.

Whether you prefer traditional nigiri sushi or more modern sushi rolls, there is no denying that sushi is a delicious and fascinating cuisine with a rich history and a bright future.

Sushi from Chef Stelio; a blend of Japanese Sushi Art and Mozambican Ingredients.

I, Chef Stelio, am honoured to be the pioneer of an in-home sushi catering service in Maputo, Mozambique. 

Bookings

Would you like me to cater for you? Check my Services or go straight to my Bookings form and let's plan your next event!

Stay Updated

Updates of my sushi catering events in Maputo can be found on Instagram: @chefstelio