T3W10 R Q15 – Selective High School

The History of Sushi

Sushi is one of Japan’s most iconic foods, but its origins go far beyond Japanese borders. 15 ________ Early forms of sushi actually began in Southeast Asia as a method of preserving fish. Fish was placed in rice to ferment and could be stored for months. The rice was often discarded, and only the preserved fish was eaten.

This style of sushi eventually made its way to Japan around the 8th century. The Japanese adopted and refined the technique, developing a style called narezushi. 16 ________ Unlike the original Southeast Asian method, the Japanese began eating both the fish and the rice together. However, it still took months to ferment and was mainly eaten during special occasions.

During the Edo period (1603–1868), a major innovation occurred in the preparation of sushi. A chef named Hanaya Yohei is credited with creating nigiri sushi, which is closer to the sushi we know today. 17 ________ Instead of relying on fermentation, fresh fish was pressed onto small portions of vinegared rice and served immediately.

18 ________ With rapid urbanisation, there was a growing demand for quick and portable food options, especially in Tokyo. Nigiri sushi became popular as a kind of fast food, sold at street stalls and eaten with the hands.

As refrigeration technology developed and international travel expanded, sushi began to spread beyond Japan. 19 ________ By the 1980s, sushi had taken root in major cities around the world, particularly in the United States and Europe. Western palates also influenced new creations such as the California Roll.

Today, sushi continues to evolve, blending traditional techniques with modern ingredients. Chefs experiment with global flavours and presentation, while still respecting sushi's cultural roots. 20 ________ Whether enjoyed in a high-end restaurant or picked up at a supermarket, sushi has become a global culinary phenomenon.

Six sentences have been removed from the text. Choose from the sentences (A – G) the one which fits each gap (12 – 17). There is one extra sentence which you do not need to use.

Its journey from a preservation method to a delicacy reflects changes in both technology and taste.

Sushi first emerged not in Japan, but along the Mekong River region

This balance between innovation and tradition has helped sushi maintain its appeal across cultures.

In some regions, sushi is traditionally served with pickled plums and seasonal vegetables.

This shift was largely driven by the changing pace of life in Japanese cities.

Instead of discarding the rice, the Japanese began to appreciate its flavour.

It consisted of raw fish placed atop seasoned rice and was meant to be eaten immediately.

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Six sentences have been removed from the text. Choose from the sentences (A – G) the one which fits each gap (12 – 17). There is one extra sentence which you do not need to use.