On Scene
Making Sushi with a Master By Jessalyn Herreria Langevin | Photos by Dan Langevin
Nigiri, maki, temaki, uramaki… What do these Japanese words have in common? They are all types of sushi rolls! Every sushi aficionado in the Denver metro area knows about the famous Sushi Den and it’s hip younger sister, Izakaya Den. However, did you know Izakaya Den offers sushi making classes given by chef and restaurateur, Yasu Kizaki? On select Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, Chef Kizaki teaches up to 23 participants how to make four different styles of sushi: • Nigiri, sashimi grade fish placed on top of rice, • Maki, sushi rolls with seaweed on the outside, • Temaki, sushi that resembles an ice cream cone, and • Uramaki, sushi rolls with rice on the outside. The class leads up to a dinner that includes 20 pieces of sushi and miso soup. Each participant ends up making the sushi that they eat. After class, dinner is held inside the restaurant where participants can chat with each other and enjoy the company. The event creBefore any meal, it is Japanese tradition ates a unique date night to be to say, “Itadakimasu” which translates to “I humbly receive” or “Let’s eat” shared with someone special. Throughout the class, Chef Kizaki imparts his expertise, guides his students on their technique, and clarifies the differences between the American sushi experience and the Japanese sushi experience. As you progress through the class, you discover which type of sushi should be eaten as soon as it is served and which can wait. Chef Kizaki also illuminates his students as to how his restaurants obtain the freshest fish possible. Taking the class opens your eyes as to how little you once knew about sushi. If you’re interested in learning the art of sushi making from a master, be advised to book a class early, as space is limited and classes are frequently filled one to two months in advance. More details regarding Chef Kizaki’s class can be found at www.sushiden.net/sliced. Before dinner, Chef Kizaki discusses Japanese meal traditions. Nigiri is usually the last sushi made and is handled quickly to ensure the freshest taste.
OCA Celebrates the Year of the Rat By Jessalyn Herreria Langevin
On Saturday, February 1, 2020 the Organization of Chinese Americans (OCA) celebrated the coming of the Year of the Rat with a fantastic Lunar New Year banquet. The night included a cocktail social, night market, carnival games, a silent auction, entertainment, and, of course, a ten-course dinner. Former Channel 7 news anchors Bertha Lynn and Christine Chang Gillette emceed the event. Another successful event for OCA, the banquet was sold out with over 300 people in attendance. Find out more about OCA at www.ocacolorado.org.
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March 2020 | On Scene
