Black skipjack nigiri

Black skipjack (Suma)

【Nigiri sushi: Akami】
Black skipjack (Suma) is a fish similar to bonito, but its flesh and flavor have a unique appeal. Its flesh is less reddish than that of frigate tuna (Hirasouda), slightly softer and fattier, and has a relatively large bloodline. Its flavor is lighter than that of striped bonito (Hagatsuo); although it is similar to bonito, the iron-like odor and acidity characteristic of bonito are milder. Its particularly fatty flesh pairs well with sushi rice and can be enjoyed as high-quality nigiri sushi.

Wild Suma has a low catch volume and is rarely found on the market; however, it is served as a sushi topping under the names “Yaitogatsuo” or “Yait” not only at sushi restaurants in Shikoku and Kyushu but also in Tokyo. Although it occasionally arrives at the Toyosu Market, the quantity is extremely small, so it is not a fish that can be enjoyed regularly even in Tokyo.

Furthermore, because the flesh does not shrink much when heated, it is well suited to a variety of dishes. The fact that a rich, umami-filled broth can be extracted from its fish trimmings is another testament to the deliciousness of Suma.

【Related contents】
List of Red flesh fish (Akami)