Simply Sushi; Sushi

These programs contain two radically different approaches to sushi. (For those not among the cognoscenti, "sushi" is a Japanese concoction of raw seafood, usually served with rice and seaweed.) The heavily produced Lorimar version could be used as an "Entertainment Tonight" segment, while Ban Gai's effort is something you might expect to see on PBS. Both programs are similarly structured with a history/origin intro, how-to demonstrations, and concluding with a little Emily Post session at the sushi bar. Ban Gai's tape is the program to buy if you're looking for basic instruction. Not only does the chef demonstrate, he has a student repeat the process while he advises and corrects. When you're done with this program, you should be able to duplicate what you've seen. The Lorimar video is much flashier, and while the chef covers a lot of material not shown in the other program, the pace is fast and the explanations are a little thin for a novice. Also, the chef is prone to show off with intricate knife work that no beginner could ever hope to duplicate. This isn't to say the program is without merit. An advanced sushi maker could pick up any number of tips and techniques. The primary value of the Lorimar tape is familiarization--e.g. everything you need to know to avoid making a fool of yourself when confronted with a plate full of raw fish. Both programs are recommended. (Simply Sushi is available from most large distributors; Sushi is available from: Ban Gai Productions, P.O. Box 21033, Seattle, WA 98111). (Elliott Swanson, Kitsap Regional Library).