It might surprise you that the word “sushi” does not translate to raw fish. Rather, it is an old term that means “sour” which is used in reference to Japanese grains that are mixed with vinegar to make the rice we use for sushi.

Styles and presentation of sushi varies widely but sushi originally began as just fish that was fermented with salt and rice after rice was discarded. It was over time that people began to eat the rice as well as the fish. Subsequently, vinegar was used in place of fermented rice, creating the fast food we have today that we strongly associate with Japanese culture.

Which kind of sushi is your favourite?

SAKE & AJI NIGIRI

TAMAGO & EBI NIGIRI

IKURA & UNI MAKI

SUSHI ROLLS

ONIGIRI & TEMAKI

A good beer can highlight the best part of any dish if you know which kind to choose. The versatility of the drink makes beer pairing a very practical skill. A helpful tip to take away today is that light beers go with lighter dishes and heavier beers go with heavier nosh. 

But at the end of the day, what reigns supreme is your palate. If you are feeling chips with stout, go for it. Otherwise, here are a few pairing suggestions for some of the more common beer types you might come across!

Whether it tastes bitter, malty, dark, or light, keep in mind a few guidelines when drinking to get the most out of your pairing. Besides matching complementing flavours, you can pair by contrast, use your beer as a palate cleanser for dishes with strong flavours, or avoid overpowering beers that can mask the taste of your food.

Here, save this chart. It will help you enjoy your beer with food better!

Yes, you are very welcome!