Pros
- Comprehensive crash course for absolute beginners
- Wide recipe variety from traditional to modern
- Practical advice on supplies and high-quality ingredients
- Substantial 192 pages with detailed instructions
- Strong ranking in Japanese cooking books
Cons
- No video tutorials for visual learners
- Paperback format may not lay completely flat
- Some recipes require specialty items like nori
This sushi cookbook for beginners by Chika Ravitch is a comprehensive guide designed for those new to Japanese cuisine, offering 100 step-by-step recipes to create sushi at home without prior experience. It covers everything from traditional Tuna Rolls to unique creations like Spicy Fried Mozzarella Rolls, making it perfect for home cooks eager to explore sushi, sashimi, nigiri, and more using readily available ingredients.
Standout features include detailed instructions on essential tools such as sushi mats and rice paddles, along with tips for selecting and preparing ingredients to achieve professional results. The book balances classic seafood options with vegetarian and beyond-seafood choices, enhanced by pantry staples like roasted sesame seeds and dashi stock powder that elevate flavors effortlessly. In real-world use, these recipes enable quick mastery of techniques, turning kitchen novices into confident sushi makers.
Build quality is solid with 192 pages in a sturdy paperback format measuring 7.5 x 0.48 x 9.25 inches, weighing 2.31 pounds for easy handling. The clear layout and high-quality printing support repeated reference during cooking sessions.
Potential drawbacks include the lack of accompanying videos, which might challenge some visual learners, and the paperback's tendency not to lay perfectly flat on counters. A few recipes may call for specialty items like nori sheets.
Overall verdict: An excellent choice for beginners seeking an accessible entry into sushi making, delivering value through variety, simplicity, and practical guidance that transforms home cooking.
Publisher: Callisto
Publication Date: July 28, 2020
Language: English
Print Length: 192 pages
ISBN-10: 1646118782
ISBN-13: 978-1646118786
Item Weight: 2.31 pounds
Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.48 x 9.25 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #10,136 in Books, #2 in Japanese Cooking, Food & Wine