| Name (Japanese) | Broadbanded Thornyhead (Kinki, Kichiji / キンキ, キチジ / 喜知次) |
| Overall Rating |
Flavor: ★★★★★ Texture: ★★★★☆ Popularity: ★★★★☆ |
| Reference Price |
Value: ★★★★☆ Price range: $35~$80/lb |
| Best Season | Winter to early spring |
| Did you know? | It is deep-sea fish, known for its firm, fatty flesh and umami-rich flavor. |
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Overview |
Kanji Name: 喜知次 (Kichiji) English Name: Broadbanded Thornyhead Scientific Name: Sebastolobus macrochir Classification: • Kingdom: Animalia • Phylum: Chordata • Class: Actinopterygii • Order: Scorpaeniformes • Family: Sebastidae • Genus: Sebastolobus • Species: S. macrochir Average Size: 40–60 cm Key Features: Firm, fatty flesh, mild umami flavor, prized for richness and texture |
| 2. Habitat & Distribution |
Found in cold, deep waters off the coast of northern Japan and the Sea of Japan. Typically caught by longline or bottom trawl fishing. Prefers rocky seabeds at depths of 100–400 meters. |
| 3. Seasonality |
Best season is winter to early spring (December–March). Peak fat content and sweetness occur during colder months. |
| 4. Sushi Ingredient Profile |
Common Uses: Nigiri, sashimi, simmered (nitsuke), grilled Flavor: Rich umami with a subtle ocean aroma Texture: Firm, buttery, slightly flaky Fat Content: Moderate to high; concentrated under the skin |
| 5. Preparation & Craftsmanship |
Often served as nigiri or sashimi to highlight fatty flavor. Nitsuke preparation enhances natural sweetness. Requires careful handling to maintain texture and umami. |
| 6. Recommended Pairings |
Sushi Rice: Lightly seasoned with white vinegar Condiments: Wasabi, yuzu zest, ponzu, rock salt Drinks: Dry ginjo sake, crisp white wine |
| 7. Nutritional Information |
High in protein and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Contains vitamin D, selenium, and essential minerals. |
| 8. Trivia & Cultural Notes |
Kinki is a prized fish in Japan, especially for winter dishes. Known for its firm, fatty flesh, often considered a luxury item. Frequently featured in high-end sushi and kaiseki cuisine. |
| 9. Recommended Sushi Styles |
• Kinki nigiri with a touch of wasabi • Kinki sashimi with yuzu or ponzu • Simmered kinki (nitsuke) for sweetness • Lightly grilled kinki nigiri to enhance flavor |
