Sashimi is thinly sliced raw fish served without rice. It is one of the simplest forms of Japanese cuisine and highlights the quality and freshness of the fish. Common sashimi options include salmon (sake), tuna (maguro), shrimp (ebi), and eel (unagi).

Nigiri is a slice of raw or cooked fish placed on top of a small, hand-pressed mound of seasoned sushi rice. The rice is lightly seasoned with vinegar. Nigiri is typically eaten in one or two bites and is a staple of traditional sushi service.

A maki roll is a cylindrical sushi roll made by wrapping rice, nori (seaweed), and fillings together, then slicing the roll into 6 to 8 pieces. Maki is the most common sushi format in the United States and comes in many variations including basic rolls, signature rolls, and inside-out rolls.

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Sushi Guide

Sashimi vs Nigiri vs Maki: sushi types explained.

Q: Which sushi type is best for beginners?

Maki rolls are generally the best starting point for first-time sushi guests. Cooked options like the Shrimp Tempura Roll and California Roll are mild, familiar, and widely available. Nigiri is a good next step for guests who want to try fish-forward sushi with rice.

Q: Which sushi type has the fewest calories?

Sashimi has the fewest calories because it is pure fish with no rice. According to the USDA FoodData Central database, a typical serving of salmon sashimi contains approximately 130 to 180 calories. Nigiri adds roughly 40 to 60 calories per piece from the rice. Maki rolls vary widely from 200 to 500 calories per roll depending on ingredients.

A simple guide to the three main sushi formats — what each one is, how they differ, and which to order first at GENKIS SUSHI in Dallas, Texas.

The Basics

Three formats, one cuisine.

Sushi is not one single dish — it is a category of Japanese cuisine built around vinegared rice and fresh ingredients. The three most common sushi formats are sashimi, nigiri, and maki (rolls). Understanding the difference helps guests choose the right items and get more from their order.

At GENKIS SUSHI in Dallas, all three formats are available for pickup and delivery. Whether you prefer pure fish, fish on rice, or a full roll with fillings and toppings, the menu covers every style.

Format 1

Sashimi

What it is: Thinly sliced raw fish served without rice. Sashimi highlights the natural flavor and texture of the fish itself.

Best for: Guests who want pure fish flavor, low-carb or keto diners, and anyone looking for the lightest sushi option.

At GENKIS SUSHI: Available in Salmon (Sake), Tuna (Maguro), Shrimp (Ebi), and Eel (Unagi).

Calories: Approximately 130–180 per serving (USDA FoodData Central).

Format 2

Nigiri

What it is: A slice of raw or cooked fish pressed onto a small hand-shaped mound of seasoned sushi rice. Eaten in one or two bites.

Best for: Guests who want a balance of fish and rice, traditional sushi enthusiasts, and anyone ready to move beyond rolls.

At GENKIS SUSHI: Available individually or as the Traditional Nigiri Combo or Signature Nigiri Combo.

Calories: Approximately 40–70 per piece depending on fish type.

Format 3

Maki (Rolls)

What it is: A cylindrical roll made with rice, nori (seaweed), and fillings — sliced into 6 to 8 pieces. The most popular sushi format in the U.S.

Best for: First-time sushi guests, group orders, families, and anyone who likes variety and bold flavors.

At GENKIS SUSHI: Choose from 14 basic rolls starting at $5.45 and 15 signature rolls with premium toppings and sauces.

Calories: Approximately 200–500 per roll depending on ingredients (USDA).

Common Questions

Sushi types FAQ.

Which sushi type is best for beginners?

Maki rolls are the best starting point. Cooked options like the Shrimp Tempura Roll and California Roll are mild, familiar, and widely popular. Nigiri is a good next step once you are comfortable with fish-forward sushi.

Which sushi type has the fewest calories?

Sashimi is the lowest-calorie option because it contains no rice. According to the USDA FoodData Central database, a typical serving of salmon sashimi is approximately 130–180 calories. Maki rolls range from 200 to 500 calories depending on ingredients like tempura or cream cheese.

Is sashimi safe to eat raw?

Yes, when handled properly. According to the FDA, fish intended for raw consumption should be frozen at specific temperatures to eliminate parasites. GENKIS SUSHI sources all fish from licensed distributors that meet these federal food safety guidelines.

Can I mix sashimi, nigiri, and rolls in one order?

Yes. At GENKIS SUSHI, you can combine any items from the menu in a single order. Many guests order a mix of rolls for variety, nigiri for a traditional experience, and sashimi as a lighter option alongside heavier items.

What is the difference between a basic roll and a signature roll?

Basic rolls use simpler, classic ingredient combinations and are typically priced between $5.45 and $7.95. Signature rolls feature premium ingredients, layered toppings, specialty sauces, and more complex flavor profiles, typically priced between $15.95 and $18.95.

Sources & References

Try All Three

Order sashimi, nigiri, and rolls from GENKIS SUSHI.

Explore the full menu and build an order that covers every sushi style — available for pickup and delivery in Dallas.

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