This is reflected in the way Japanese food is prepared, selected and presented. The Japanese demand quality and food which presents as well as nature can offer. Elaborate attention is therefore given to presenting food so that it can display its natural freshness, purity and form. Surrounded by oceans, Japan has long depended on the sea for much of its food. Fish is therefore a main part of the food of Japan, and it is eaten in a variety of ways - raw, steamed, fried, boiled and grilled.
Raw fish is presented in two ways, sashimi and sushi.
In Japan, sashimi is a highly refined delicacy. For sushi, different ingredients are used. Vinegared rice is compressed into various shapes upon which raw fish and other seafood is placed. Yakitori, chicken morsels grilled over hot charcoal and basted with a sweet soy sauce. Yakitori is generally eaten as an appetiser or for a light meal.