Learn to Make Sushi and Japanese Food with Denmark’s Most Experienced Sushi Chef and Sake Sommelier

Discover exclusive sushi and Japanese cooking classes held in Copenhagen, as well as at private homes and companies across Denmark.
Whether you’re a curious beginner, a food enthusiast, or a company interested in Japanese gastronomy, you’ll learn authentic techniques and flavors from the Japanese kitchen shared with calmness, presence, and many years of experience.

“In Japan, you never stop learning. In 2012, I was introduced to a Japanese nigiri hand technique that takes 20 years to master – I find that fascinating. Sushi is a dish that isn’t cooked; the sharpness of your knife and your technique determine the quality of the finished sushi.” – Zoë Escher

What Customers Say
“It was a pleasure having you visit 😊
I’ve received so much lovely feedback from the participants they had a fun and educational evening.” – Maria

“Wow! Yet another wonderful evening in your company 😃
You are AMAZING at conveying knowledge, and the results were once again a fantastic experience. All the participants were VERY enthusiastic!” – Tanja

Recognition
2019: Judge for the daily newspaper Politiken in connection with testing food for their readers.
2016: Held the official opening speech and opened the fair Formland Spring in Messecenter Herning in Denmark. At the opening of the fair there were 49 people from the press, 20 VIP and 271 exhibitors.
2015: Made sushi and Japanese dishes as private dining at home of US ambassador in Denmark Rufus Gifford.
2013: Rated as Denmark’s sushi expert no. 1 by gourmet supermarket chain Irma.
2013: Guest judget at Masterchef Denmark season 3.
2013: Made sushi and Japanese dishes as staff food to the 3 star Michelin restaurant

Zoë is known from Danish magazines and TV such as Copenhagen Food, ALT for Damerne, Berlingske, Femina, IN, Mad & Bolig, TV3 and the consumer council magazine “THINK”.

Reference: Restaurant Geranium***, A.P. Møller – Mærsk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Ikea, Novartis, Capgemini, VELUX, Takeda Pharma, Haldore Topsøe, Dansk Byggeri, Deloitte, Gorrissen Federspiel, Man Energy Solutions, Symphogen and many more.

For the Danish version of this website click on Zoë Escher – Det Autentiske japanske køkken

5 vegetarian Japanese noodles soups for one

See the full selection of mini e-cookbooks with 5 recipes for 1 person here on the website. Price: 45 DKK.

How long can soy sauce last?

by


Soy sauce is fermented soybeans.

In Japan, there are as many different types of soy sauce as there is cheese in a Danish supermarket.
Yep, that’s true.

There are different types of soy sauces for the many styles in Japanese cuisine. For sushi, a specific Japanese soy sauce is used, a soy sauce that is not used for Japanese noodle soups.

All bottles naturally display a recommended expiration date indicating when the soy sauce should be used.
Since soy sauce is made from fermented soybeans, it has a very long shelf life and can usually be consumed even after the expiration date. If you’re unsure, you can always taste it to check the quality.

I store soy sauce outside the fridge too even though the bottle is open, I have always done that. So do Japanese sushi restaurants in Tokyo.

In the Sushi course for beginners, I talk more about which soy sauce is best suited for sushi.

_
Zoë has lectured and held sushi courses for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

Bring Japanese Comfort Food to Your Own Pan

by

Mini ebook: 5 Japanese okonomiyaki for one

If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine but prefer easy cooking without huge portions or endless ingredients, then okonomiyaki is just what you need
The iconic Japanese street food pancake that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with deep umami flavor.

To make it super easy for you to get started, I’ve gathered 5 delicious okonomiyaki recipes in a mini e-book, created especially for one person.
This way, you can treat yourself to authentic Japanese flavors without stress, without food waste, and completely at your own pace.

5 Tempting Variations

The mini e-book “5 Japanese Okonomiyaki for 1” takes you on a small flavor journey to Japan.
Here, you’ll learn to master everything that makes okonomiyaki so delicious. From the fluffy batter and crispy crust to the juicy toppings, every bite becomes unforgettable.

You’ll get five different variations featuring ingredients such as Parma ham, scallops, bacon, large shrimp, and a vegetarian version. Perfect whether you prefer something light, luxurious, or intensely umami-rich.

Easy to Make

In the mini e-book, you’ll find simple step-by-step recipes that guide you through the entire process:

  • How to mix the batter
    • How to choose the toppings
    • How to cook your okonomiyaki so the texture is just right
    (Sweet, salty, crispy, soft – exactly like in Japan!)

And the best part?

Everything is made for one person. That means:

  • No leftovers
    • No food waste
    • No complicated adjustments

Just pure Japanese comfort – whenever you crave it.

What You Get in the Mini E-book?

√ 5 authentic and varied okonomiyaki recipes
√ Easy and clear step-by-step instructions
√ Japanese comfort food in the perfect portion size
√ Inspiration to cook more Japanese dishes at home

If you’re craving a bit of travel-inspired flavor in your everyday routine, this mini e-book is the perfect place to start. It’s also ideal if you simply want to treat yourself to something completely different from the usual pasta and sandwiches.

Are you ready to flip your way into Japanese comfort at home?

It costs only 45 DKK.
(Is also EUR 6 or USD 6.50)
Read more about 5 Japanese Okonomiyaki for 1

_
Zoë has lectured and held sushi courses for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

What kind of fish is used for sushi in Japan?

by


In Japan, many different kinds of fish are used for sushi.
The selection of fish is very very large. Each season offers many different tasty fish.

In Japan, fish is something very special. It is so for several reasons.

Fish in Japan is very fresh. The fish is so fresh that it has only been dead a few hours before it ends up on the dinner table in Japanese homes or sushi restaurants.

The quality of raw materials means extremely much to the Japanese. It should be as fresh as possible.
Some restaurants choose to have a large pool of fish as part of the restaurant. Once guests have placed their order, fish is caught and, prepared for sushi or another tasty dish.

It gives a completely different food experience, as the fish has a completely different consistency. It can be compared to live lobsters, which are first killed just before being placed in a pot of boiling water.

Read more about Sushi course for beginners

_
Zoë has lectured and held sushi courses for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

Are there sushi courses for beginners in Copenhagen?

by

Sushi chef & sake sommerlier Zoë Escher
Yes!

If you dream of learning how to make authentic, delicious sushi, and you want to do it right here in Copenhagen, then my Sushi course for beginners is perfect for you.
The courses are held on weekends, making it easy for everyone to participate, whether you come alone, as a couple, with friends, or with your child

What will you get out of the sushi course?

In the course, you’ll receive a thorough yet accessible introduction to the Japanese art of sushi making.
We begin with the sushi rice, which is the key to great sushi. You’ll learn the entire process from preparation to cooking using Japanese techniques.
We also work with ingredients that create authentic flavour, including fish, vegetables, and Japanese staples.
You’ll learn how to evaluate quality at the fishmonger, and how to handle and cut both fish and vegetables to achieve the best results.

During the course, we will roll several types of sushi, and you’ll receive practical tips that make it easier to create beautiful and tasty rolls you can be proud of.
The goal is that after the course, you’ll feel confident making sushi at home and know exactly what to look for when shopping for ingredients.

Small classes with focus on you

Classes are small, giving you plenty of room and time to immerse yourself.
You’ll have your own workstation and the opportunity to receive personal feedback along the way, even though the teaching takes place in a group.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and the course is also suitable for families and adults bringing a child.

When you go home, you’ll have the techniques, knowledge, and confidence to make Japanese-inspired sushi in your own kitchen.

The course is taught by Japanese trained Sushi Chef & Sake Sommelier Zoë Escher, who has 19 years of experience.

Read more about Sushi course for beginners

_
Zoë has lectured and held sushi courses for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

Do Japanese sushi restaurants use topping on the food?

by

Sushi chef & sake sommelier Zoë Escher
In Denmark, most sushi restaurants use topping on the food. It is typically sushi rolls such as insite-out which are topped with various ingredients such as roe, seaweed salad, chili mayonnaise, pickled onions and crushed wasabi peas. Sushi rolls are often topped in many different ways.

In Japan, topping is not used in the same way as in Denmark.
The Japanese are very fond of fish of very high quality. They eat as much fish as we eat meat.
So that’s why Japanese customers and Japanese sushi chefs have a slightly different approach to sushi. The sushi pieces should preferably be as simple as possible, ie. with rice and fish are in the center so they are allowed to shine.

Sushi topping is used in Japan. It can be lemon, an herb or a specific type of salt, which is used to highlight fish unique flavors and aromas.

At the Sushi course for beginners, you will learn how to make tasty sushi like Japanese sushi chefs in Tokyo.

_
Zoë has lectured and held sushi courses for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

With a sushi course, you can eat sushi several times a week

by


Are you also one of those who love sushi, but find it too expensive to buy out every time?

Or do you just want to impress your friends and family with your own homemade sushi?

Then a sushi course might be just what you need!

With a sushi course, you not only learn the art of making tasty sushi rolls, but you also learn how you can save money by making your own sushi at home. You can choose your own fresh ingredients and adapt the taste exactly to your wishes.

Sushi is not only delicious; it can also be a healthy and nutritious way to eat. With a sushi course, you learn to choose the best ingredients and raw materials, prepare them correctly and assemble the rolls in a way that gives you a balanced and nutritious meal.

Take a sushi course with friends or family and make it a social event.
It is not only a great way to learn, but it is also fun to make delicious sushi rolls together and share the experience. After the course, you can continue to organize sushi evenings at home, where you can enjoy your homemade creations.

Learning how to make sushi is not just a temporary skill – it is a lifelong skill. Once you learn the technique, you can enjoy delicious sushi exactly the way you want it, whenever you want.

Read more about Sushi course for beginners

_
Zoë has held sushi courses and cooking classes for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

Can all types of seafood be used for sushi?

by

For that I have to say both Yes and No.

It depends a lot on how it is used in sushi.
You have to think that seafood has a completely different texture than fish. Most fish fillets are quite firm in the meat.

If you look entirely at seafood they remind you most about a bag of mixed candy. Seafood comes in many different sizes, tastes and texture. It is the raw material that is the hardest to use for sushi.

Some seafood used in sushi restaurants outside Europe are very difficult to prepare for sushi, it requires you as a sushi chef to use many different Japanese cooking techniques.

The consistency of seafood is also very different. Some shellfish have a very hard surface while others are very soft. In order for this type of raw material to become a gastronomic experience, you need to know which Japanese cooking techniques are best suited to it.

At the Sushi course for beginners the attendance learns to prepare the most sought after raw materials for sushi.

_
Zoë has held sushi courses and cooking classes for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

How long can Sushi last if stored in a refrigerator?

by

Sushi is a dish that is different from other dishes in Japanese cuisine. It is a dish where the shelf life is very short.

Sushi should be eaten the same day it was purchased and there are several reasons.

Raw fish included in sushi together have shelf life as beef Tatar. Since there will be more bacteria in the food the next day.

Avocado is a raw material that quickly turns brown and dull. Most people know what half an avocado looks like the next day if it is not stored in the “right” way.

The individual rice grains also change in taste. The next day, the individual rice grains will be harder to chew.

At the Sushi course for beginners you will learn how to make tasty sushi that you can enjoy for lunch and dinner.

_
Zoë has held sushi courses and cooking classes for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

Do Japanese sushi chefs use different types of fish than sushi restaurants in Europe?

by

Japanese sushi chefs use many different types of fish than European sushi restaurants. Fish is a very popular raw material in Japanese cuisine. The Japanese learn to enjoy fish from when they are small. The Japanese eat as much fish as we eat meat in Europe.

The selection of fresh fish suitable for sushi is bigger in Japan than in Europe. This also means that it is very normal for sushi restaurants in Japan to have 15-20 different fish on the menu.

Some of the fish which is on a Japanese menu such as salmon, tuna and squid. The Japanese menu also contains local fish that can only be caught in local sea in Japan

Read more about the Sushi course for beginners

_
Zoë has held sushi courses and cooking classes for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.

Sushi is the easiest way to get more vegetables eaten!

by

Sushi chef & sake sommerlier Zoë Escher

Did you know that sushi can be one of the easiest ways to eat more vegetables without getting tired of your food?

One of the main ingredients in sushi is seaweed. This type of seaweed is cultivated on the seabed in countries such as Japan, Korea, and China, in much the same way as we grow oats and wheat here at home. The flavor varies depending on where it is grown, and in Japan it is typically harvested in the autumn.

After harvesting, the seaweed goes through a thorough process, it is washed, cleaned, dried, pressed, and cut to the right size. In Japan, you can find both everyday seaweed and exclusive quality seaweed for gourmet sushi.

Sushi seaweed is actually the vegetable in the world that contains the most vitamins and minerals. You therefore don’t need to eat much before covering a large part of your body’s needs.

Would you like to learn how to make delicious sushi at home in your own kitchen?

At our Sushi course for beginners, you will be guided step by step through all the techniques.

_
Zoë has lectured and held sushi courses for A. P. Moller – Maersk, Hugo Boss Nordic, Novo Nordisk, Novartis, Velux, Gorrissen Federspiel, Beierholm revision, Elbek & Vejrup and many more.