Young Japanese amberjack nigiri

Young Japanese amberjack (Inada)

【Nigiri sushi: Shiromi】
Inada is a young fish, about 30 cm long, of the Japanese amberjack, also known as yellowtail (buri)—a species known as a “shusseuo” because its name changes as it grows. In the Kanto region, it goes by the names Mojako, Wakashi, Inada, and Warasa before eventually becoming Buri. Compared with Buri, it has very little fat, but that is precisely what gives it its distinctive light and refreshing flavor. While the flavor of “kanburi” (winter yellowtail) varies depending on the region of origin, differences in the flavor of Inada based on origin are relatively minor. Its appeal also lies in its abundant supply and affordable price.

However, while it may seem a little lacking to palates accustomed to the rich, fatty flavor of farmed Hamachi, it actually pairs exceptionally well with vinegared rice. In the Kansai region, some people even prefer Inada to Buri. It is also one of the sushi toppings that Jiro Ono, now retired, was particularly fond of using.

(Revision date: September 28, 2026)