Step 1 : Introduction to the question "What is basashi?"
...Basashi is one of those acquired tastes. A dish of this thinly sliced raw horse meat is a delicacy in Japanese culinary culture. It is generally served on a bed of ice with condiments such as shiso leaves, daikon and soy sauce from which to choose. It is sometimes called sakura, meaning cherry, because of its natural deep red color. Basashi can be extremely chewy if not prepared properly. Connoisseurs of basashi describe fine basashi as tasting "smooth and creamy, like the best tuna belly." Source: JapanForTheUninvited.com