Chopstick Taboo

[den]

Why was I never told of this?I've been comitting sashi-bashi and namida-bashi for AGES

Comments

[hopeforyou.livejournal.com]

I'ts kaki-bashi and sashi-bashi for me. Especially sashi-bashi.

One thing I'm not noticing here is alternative correct strategies for using chopsticks. I for one would love to know how to cut larger portions of sushi and other items with my chopsticks *without* stabbing them at any time. I've just never seen it done -- I stab the piece with the chopstick and use multiple "swishing" cutting motions with both chopsticks to tear across the item.

[http://users.livejournal.com/crossfire_/]

I think the idea is you shouldn't have to cut your food (especially sushi) up further at the table. The food should arrive at the diner's table ready to enjoy without effort.

At least, that's what I was taught by my Uncle Him about Chinese table manners. They do have knives and forks, after all, but they are considered implements for the kitchen. Only barbarians would have them at the dining table.

Me, I'm guilty of watashi-bashi frequently, but now I will be much more careful not to do it in public. I don't think there is an equivalent censure against placing your chopsticks on top of the bowl in Chinese etiquette, which is probably where I picked up the bad habit.

What concerns me is not knowing precisely what Yoko-bashi is (mentioned in the "There are a number of other taboos" section, but with no picture). It sounds like it may be what I do to eat rice with chopsticks...

[tropism.livejournal.com]

Basically, you press down with the length of the chopstick to force the bits apart. But it's also perfectly okay to just eat whatever it is in a couple of bites.