If you're a fan of sushi, you've probably come across suzuki fish. This popular fish is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is known for its delicate, sweet flavour and tender texture.
Suzuki fish, also known as Japanese sea bass or Lateolabrax japonicus, is a species of catadromous marine ray-finned fish found in the Western Pacific. This fish is unique in that it spends its early life in freshwater rivers before returning to the ocean to breed.
Suzuki fish is a popular ingredient in traditional Edomae sushi, a style of sushi that originated in Tokyo during the 19th century.
Despite its popularity, suzuki fish is not as widely known outside of Japan. This is partly due to its limited availability outside of its native waters. However, those who have had the pleasure of trying suzuki fish can attest to its delicious flavour and tender texture.
Biology and Ecology
Species Identification
Suzuki fish, also known as Japanese sea bass, belongs to the family Lateolabracidae. It is a catadromous marine fish found in the Western Pacific.
Suzuki fish is a large, elongated fish with a silver-grey body and a slightly forked tail. It has a black spot on the upper part of its gill cover and a dark blotch on the base of its pectoral fin.
Habitat and Distribution
Suzuki fish is found in estuaries, rivers, and coastal waters of Japan, Korea, China, and Taiwan. It prefers to live in shallow water with a sandy or muddy bottom.
Suzuki fish is a euryhaline species, which means it can tolerate a wide range of salinity levels.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Suzuki fish reaches sexual maturity at around 2-3 years of age. The spawning season occurs from April to August in Japan.
Females produce up to 1 million eggs, which are fertilized externally by males. The eggs hatch into larvae, which drift with the currents for about 2-3 weeks before settling in shallow waters.
Suzuki fish is a slow-growing species, and it can live up to 20 years.
Culinary Profile
Suzuki in Japanese Cuisine
Suzuki fish, also known as Japanese sea bass, is a popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine, especially in sushi and sashimi dishes.
Suzuki has a delicate, sweet flavor and a pleasant aroma that makes it a favourite among sushi lovers. In fact, suzuki is considered one of the Shiromi, which translates to "white fish" in Japanese, along with other fish such as tai (red snapper) and hirame (flounder).
In Edomae sushi, which is a traditional style of sushi that originated in Tokyo, suzuki is often served as nigiri sushi, which is a small ball of rice topped with a slice of raw fish.
The fish is usually lightly brushed with soy sauce and served with a dab of wasabi. The sweetness of the suzuki fish pairs well with the spiciness of the wasabi, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Cooking Techniques and Pairings
Suzuki can be prepared using a variety of cooking techniques, including grilling, frying, and steaming.
When grilling suzuki, it is important to cook it slowly over low heat to prevent the delicate flesh from drying out. Frying suzuki is another popular method of preparation, as it creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.
When it comes to pairing suzuki with other ingredients, there are many options to choose from.
In addition to wasabi and soy sauce, suzuki can be served with pickled vegetables, such as daikon radish or cucumber, to add a refreshing crunch to the dish.
It can also be paired with sake, a Japanese rice wine, to enhance the delicate flavors of the fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the going rate for Suzuki fish these days?
Well, the price of Suzuki fish can vary depending on where you are in the world and the time of year. However, you can expect to pay a premium price for this delicious fish due to its high quality and popularity.
You may want to check with your local fishmonger or seafood market for current pricing.
Could you tell me what Suzuki fish is called in English?
Certainly! Suzuki fish is actually Japanese seabass. It's a highly prized fish in Japan and is known for its delicate flavour and firm texture. You'll find it in many high-end sushi restaurants around the world.
What's the flavour profile of Suzuki when served as sushi?
When served as sushi, Suzuki has a delicate, sweet flavour with a slightly nutty finish.
It's often paired with citrus flavours, such as yuzu or lemon, to enhance its natural sweetness. The texture is firm and buttery, making it a favourite among sushi lovers.
Where might one find Suzuki fish on sale?
You may be able to find Suzuki fish at your local fishmonger or seafood market. However, due to its high demand and limited availability, it may not always be in stock.
You can also check with high-end sushi restaurants in your area to see if they offer it on their menu.
Any chance you've got a cracking Suzuki fish recipe?
Absolutely! Check out this Suzuki fish carpaccio recipe for a delicious and easy way to enjoy this delicate fish. It's perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer for a dinner party.
What do they call sea bass in the Philippines?
In the Philippines, sea bass is commonly known as "apahap".
It's a popular fish in Filipino cuisine and is often grilled or fried and served with a variety of sauces and seasonings.
