Minku kujira nigiri

Minke whale (Minku kujira)

【Nigiri sushi: Others】
Whale meat has often been avoided or officially banned in Japan for religious reasons and other factors throughout history, but like in Western countries, it was consumed as fish. While the meat commonly eaten is mostly lean, the tail meat—rich in fat like marbled beef—is considered the most delicious. Tail meat comes from the area near the base of the tail fin and only a small amount can be obtained.

The minke whale is a smaller species of whale. Minke whale meat has fine fibers and little distinct flavor, allowing it to be eaten with a sensation similar to tuna or beef. There is absolutely no gaminess. However, marbling in minke whale is relatively weak, and strictly speaking, tail meat is almost nonexistent.

Grated ginger, grated garlic, scallions, and shiso leaves are excellent accompaniments for that sashimi and nigiri sushi. In Tokyo, some sushi restaurants offer whale sashimi or nigiri sushi, but they remain a minority.

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List of Nimono, Gyoran and Others