Fish roe
Tiger puffer testes (Torafugu shirako)
【Nigiri sushi: Gyoran】
Shirako is the testes of a fish. It is in season from January to March when it gets coldest. There are several types of Shirako. For example, there are versions of the Alaska codfish, Pacific cod, Pufferfish, and others.
Torafugu (Tiger puffer) Shirako doesn’t contain poison, but certain types of Puffer (Fugu) do contain poison so you have to be careful. Although it is a dangerous ingredient, Pufferfish Shirako has an indescribable richness and can be called the epitome of gourmet food. Other fish Shirako are also rich and tasty, but Tiger puffer’s popularity comes from its characteristics of a creamy taste, and an aroma without a peculiar odor. Tiger puffer can only be harvested for a short 3 months out of the year from December to March.
【Related contents】
What is Shirako?
Season
Winter