Learn How to Make Sushi at Ninki Japanese Bistro in Newburgh

The staff of Ninki Japanese Bistro in Newburgh want to share their sushi-making knowledge with you by offering classes on the history of sushi, and how you can roll your own at home.

Sushi is one of my favorite foods to eat, which wasn't the case a few years back. Like most people who have an aversion to popular cuisine, I associated "sushi" with "raw fish", and like most people, the thought of eating any type of raw meat threw up a red flag. It wasn't until after doing a little research that I found the word "sushi" refers to the way the rice is prepared before being used. Rolls featuring raw fish are known as sashimi. Chew on that sweet bit of knowledge.

Making it isn't as easy as just throwing some rice down and rolling a few ingredients up inside it. The best sushi chefs take years honing their craft. My family and I will whip up some California Rolls at home from time to time, which may not be much on looks, but taste pretty good if I do say so myself.

If you'd prefer to learn how to do it the right way, as opposed to finding a recipe on the internet like I did, make plans to attend Ninki's classes on May 15th and 22nd. The classes will feature a brief history lesson on sushi's origins, proper sushi etiquette, along with a quick tutorial on how to use chopsticks. That will be followed by learning the basics of how to prepare the rice and actually rolling your own sushi.

Space is limited, and RSVP's are required which can be done through Ninki's Facebook page. The cost to attend is $50 per person and includes sushi rolling kits, rice spreader, three Nori (dried seaweed wraps) for you to practice your sushi skills, and one roll of sushi on the menu you can select. You'll also receive customized chopsticks, and also, your own sushi rolling class t-shirt.

Both classes take place from 3:00 until 4:30 p.m.

For more information, and to RSVP, visit the Ninki Japanese Bistro Facebook page.