Star snapper nigiri

Star snapper (Fuedai)

【Nigiri sushi: Shiromi】
Star snapper (Lutjanus stellatus, Fuedai) has long been an important edible fish in southern Japan, from Kyushu southward, and is enjoyed in a variety of dishes, including sashimi, salt-grilled fish, and simmered dishes. Its flesh is translucent and has a soft, smooth texture. This flavorful white fish is highly regarded as a sushi topping. In particular, because a thick layer of fat lies between the skin and the flesh, it is often prepared as “yakishimo-zukuri” with the skin left on. When you take a bite, the savory aroma of the skin and the sweetness of the melting fat spread across your palate, while the rich, velvety flesh clings to your tongue. It leaves a pleasant aftertaste and has a richness rarely found in white fish, making it an excellent match for vinegared rice. At sushi restaurants in Kumamoto and Kagoshima, these characteristics have made it one of the signature white fish toppings.

On the other hand, it was rarely distributed in the Kanto region until recent years, and opportunities to encounter it at ordinary sushi restaurants were limited. It is also widely associated with ornamental fish, so in the past, it was available only at a select few sushi restaurants that sourced it directly from producers in regions such as Kagoshima. However, in recent years, supplies to the Kanto region have gradually increased due to a combination of factors. Even so, it remains expensive, making it difficult for restaurants other than high-end kappo establishments and luxury sushi restaurants to offer it. Furthermore, larger ones tend to command higher prices, with those weighing over 2 kg fetching particularly high prices.

【What is Fedai】
Star snapper (Fuedai) is found south of central Honshu and in the South China Sea. It is 30~40 cm in length. Its body color is light red and its fins are yellowish brown. It lives in coastal reef areas and is carnivorous. Its official name is simply “Fuedai,” but because its body has white dot-like markings, it is often called “Shirohoshifuedai” in the market.

【Related contents】
List of White flesh fish (Shiromi)

(Revision date: November 4, 2026)