【Reading】とうずし

【English Name】Kara-zushi

Kara-zushi is considered a type of local sushi handed down throughout Japan. The character "kara (唐)" was anciently used as a prefix meaning foreign or transmitted from the continent, and its influence can be seen in the names of sushi as well.

It is generally said to be made by the "oshizushi" (pressed sushi) method of pressing and firming ingredients such as fish and vegetables together with vinegared rice using a wooden mold or container. The ingredients used and the methods differ by region, and no unified definition has been established.

As for the origin of the name, there are various theories, such as one based on techniques transmitted from the continent and one that it took root as a region's own designation. Regarding the time of its first appearance in literature and the exact place of origin, further confirmation by primary sources is needed.