Despite the fact that chopsticks for sushi and rolls are called Chinese, Japan is their homeland. There they have their own name - Hashi. The first sticks appeared in the XII century. For their manufacture, bamboo was used. In ancient times, it was believed that the great emperor and the gods who were granted immortality were eaten with chopsticks. Today, there are many variations in the shapes and sizes of such sticks. In Japan, dishes (plates for sauces, cups for soups and rice) are usually divided into “female” and “male”. Sushi sticks were no exception.
For the Japanese, such sticks are not just a thing for everyday use. This is a true sacred symbol. If you believe the old traditions, then they bring good luck and long life to their master. Therefore, it is not surprising that the hashi are considered a wonderful gift for any occasion. The sticks are served in a paper case, which the Japanese call Hashi Bukuro among themselves. Often it is decorated with drawings. Such a case may also contain a restaurant logo. We announced a brief information about Hashi, and now we’ll talk about how to eat with Chinese chopsticks.
First you need to purchase sticks in a specialized store. They can be different in size and design. The choice will depend on your personal preferences. How to eat with chopsticks? Take one of the sticks in the right hand and place it between the index and thumb. And with the ring and thumb, we hold it well. At the same time, make sure that the middle, thumb and forefinger form a ring.
So, how to take the Chinese stick, we figured it out. Now you need to understand how to eat with chopsticks. Take the second stick in the same hand. It must be placed parallel to the first. The distance between them must be at least 15 mm. Stretching the middle finger, slightly spreads the sticks. When bending the finger sticks bring together. How to eat with chopsticks? We pinch the roll with our tips to send it into our mouth. If the piece turned out to be too large, then they can be separated with chopsticks. However, this must be done very carefully.
Now you know how to eat with chopsticks correctly. But during the meal it is important to observe certain rules of etiquette.
- You can’t hit the table and plate with chopsticks.
- First, select a piece of sushi or rolls, and only then you can reach for it with chopsticks.
- Many Russians, trying to ease their task, try to chop food on sticks. But this is by no means necessary.
- Do not put your face directly on the plate. Tamping is considered ramming food delivered to the mouth using Chinese chopsticks.
- Do not lick sticks after eating sushi and rolls. Also, do not just keep them in your mouth.
- If you are not going to use the sticks, then place the sharp ends to the left next to the plate.
- Serving food with chopsticks is also not recommended for a person sitting nearby.
- Do not have the habit of waving sticks in the air and pointing them at objects.
- Before you call the waiter and ask for more rice, put Chinese chopsticks on the table.
- Never clench your wands in a fist, because any Japanese will perceive this gesture as threatening.