Rice is an important staple throughout Asia, and this comes through in a strong way at our Japanese restaurant in Bothell. It’s a key part of our sushi, our rice bowls, and most other distinctly Japanese dishes. Japan’s affinity for the grain is no mystery, but were you aware of just how important it is to Japanese culture?
One of the biggest differences between Asian culinary tradition and Western dining sensibilities is how the courses of a meal are viewed. In the West, we view the main course, which is usually a meat dish, as being surrounded by supplemental side dishes of grains or vegetables. In Asia, it’s the rice that usually takes center stage. The central part of the meal is always a grain or a starch, while the meat serves as a supplemental side dish. This may account for some part of the health benefits of Asian dining. Try out this philosophy yourself at Sushi Hana!