Sushi is considered a Japanese delicacy since childhood, but sushi doesn't really come from Japan at all, and the origins of the sushi we eat today can be traced back to China, although in modern times it is closely linked to Japanese culture.
According to historical records, the rudimentary form of sushi appeared in 200 AD, during the Later Han Dynasty in China. At that time, the Chinese had begun to make food from raw materials such as salt, vinegar, rice and fish, mainly to solve the shortage of materials caused by war and social unrest, making this food a convenient and portable food for travel.
It wasn't until 700 AD, during the Nara period in Japan, that Japanese merchants introduced this food to Japan. They take rice balls marinated in vinegar, add seafood or meat, and press them into small pieces that are easy to carry and preserve. This practice was further developed and perfected in Japan, especially during the Edo period, when sushi began to become widely known and popularized.
Over time, the method of making this food has evolved many times, gradually forming the sushi form we are familiar with today. Sushi production methods have evolved over the centuries, starting with simple fermented fish and gradually developing a variety of forms and combinations. Today, the sushi we are familiar with, including sashimi, vinegared rice, and a variety of toppings, is an important part of Japanese food culture and is loved by diners around the world. This change is not only a reflection of the progress of culinary techniques, but also a reflection of the integration and innovation of cultures.
Although sushi has since become one of the symbols of Japanese culture, its origins in China cannot be overlooked. From ancient documents, it can be seen that China's exploration of pickled foods predates Japan's, and the variety of foods involved is also more diverse, including various vegetables, meat, and seafood. These traditional techniques not only demonstrated the wisdom of the Chinese in food preservation, but also laid a solid foundation for the subsequent spread and development of sushi.
In the context of globalization, sushi has become a favorite delicacy of people all over the world. Its simple combination of ingredients, unique flavors, and rich historical and cultural background make sushi more than just a dish, but also a bridge between different cultures.
Understanding the true origins of sushi allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the dish and to be aware of the interplay and integration of different cultures. Therefore, whenever we taste delicious sushi, we should remember that it is not unique to Japan, but a precious heritage of Chinese food culture originating from ancient China.