History of the Sushi Board!
Have you ever wondered where the concept of eating of a sushi board originated from?
Sushi is a traditional Japanese cuisine that has gained global popularity over the years. The elegant presentation of sushi on a wooden board adds to the charm of the dish. The use of sushi boards has a rich history that dates back to ancient Japan. In this blog, we'll explore the fascinating history of sushi boards, their significance in Japanese culture, and how they have evolved over time.
Origins of Sushi Boards
The origins of sushi date back to the 2nd century AD when Japanese fishermen started to preserve fish in fermented rice. Over time, the dish evolved into what we know today as sushi. Sushi was initially served on a bamboo mat known as a "makisu." However, as the popularity of sushi grew, the demand for a more elegant and functional presentation increased. This led to the development of the sushi board, which served as a more suitable surface for the presentation of the dish.
Sushi boards were traditionally made from wood, and the most commonly used wood was the Hinoki tree. The Hinoki tree was chosen for its natural fragrance, resistance to decay, and its ability to repel bacteria. The wood was carefully selected and seasoned for several years to achieve the ideal texture and appearance.
The Significance of Sushi Boards in Japanese Culture
In Japan, sushi is not just a dish; it is an art form. The presentation of sushi on a board is an integral part of this art form, and it is believed that the quality of the board can enhance the flavor of the sushi. The design of the board also plays an essential role in the presentation of the sushi, and it is not uncommon to see intricate designs carved into the wood.
Sushi boards are also significant in Japanese culture because they represent hospitality and respect. When a guest is served sushi on a board, it is a sign of honor and respect. The presentation of sushi on a board is a way of showing appreciation to the guest, and it is considered a crucial aspect of Japanese hospitality.
Evolution of Sushi Boards
As the popularity of sushi spread around the world, sushi boards evolved to suit different tastes and preferences. Today, sushi boards come in various designs, sizes, and materials, including wood, marble, and glass. Some sushi boards are even made with stunning wood burls and colorful epoxies, as seen in the functional pieces of art created by Deep Cove Atelier.
Certified food safe epoxies can be mixed with various colors and tinted with mica powders, allowing for a wide range of designs, patterns and depth to the pieces. Deep Cove Atelier creates both classic wooden boards highlighting spalted and contrasting woods, as well as boards that use a combination of wood and epoxy to create its unique serving boards.
Conclusion
Sushi boards have a rich history that dates back to ancient Japan. They are an integral part of Japanese culture and represent hospitality, respect, and appreciation. As sushi gained popularity worldwide, sushi boards evolved to suit different tastes and preferences, with the use of epoxy in their creation being a recent development. At Deep Cove Atelier, we create functional pieces of art, including sushi boards, that combine woods and epoxy to bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to your dining experience.
