For many people, eating out can be a challenge, especially if you have a gluten sensitivity. Gluten is a protein that can be found in wheat, rye, barley, and triticale. For those who follow a gluten-free diet, you may wonder whether sushi is suitable for you or not.
The main ingredients of sushi are naturally gluten-free, but gluten can often hide in surprising places. We’ve put together these tips to help you understand the typical sources so you can order with confidence. Let’s get into it!
The Three Sources of Gluten in Sushi
1. Soy Sauce
This is the most common source of gluten in a sushi meal. Traditional soy sauce is made with wheat, making it a big no-no for anyone avoiding gluten. While many restaurants use standard soy sauce for dipping, it can also be a key ingredient in other marinades and sauces, such as teriyaki or eel sauce.
2. Imitation Crab (Surimi)
Found in many popular rolls, like the classic California Roll, imitation crab is typically made from a fish paste called surimi. To create its signature texture, surimi often includes wheat starch or other gluten-containing binders. However, unless a restaurant specifies a gluten-free imitation crab, it’s best to assume it contains gluten.
3. Tempura
The crispy batter that coats tempura is mostly made with wheat flour. This means any roll labelled as “tempura” or “crunchy” is likely to contain gluten.
How to Enjoy Gluten-free Sushi without Worries
At Pika Sushi, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Here’s how you can savour sushi without the worry:
Opt for tamari soy sauce
Tamari is traditionally made from high-concentrated soybeans and little to no amount of wheat. When you order from us, you can ask for a gluten-free tamari soy sauce to dip with your sushi.
Choose simpler ingredients
When available, sushi with 1-2 fillings, such as Avocado Cucumber or Tuna Avocado Hand Rolls, may be a better option than hand rolls with complex ingredients and sauces.
Prefer fresh-prepared sushi
It’s best to avoid pre-packaged sushi due to the potential gluten additives and unclear preparation. Our handrolls and sushi rolls are made fresh on the day. This allows us to use naturally gluten-free ingredients, like salmon, tuna, and veggies. Plus, you can interact with our staff, who are available to answer your questions.
Check with the restaurant
Dining in? Asking a few questions about the menu ahead of time is another way to ensure your meal is prepared with utmost care. At Pika Sushi, we understand the importance of avoiding cross-contamination, and we’ve taken great care to prepare our menu. To give you more assurance, we encourage you to talk to our staff before you order. We’re ready to help you with the information you need and offer a healthy choice.
Ready to explore your gluten-free options? Discover flavourful picks in our menu, or swing by the nearest Pika Sushi store to find your perfect meal.
