| Name (Japanese) | Grey Large-eye Bream (Meichidai / メイチダイ / 目一鯛) |
| Overall Rating |
Flavor: ★★★★☆ Texture: ★★★★☆ Popularity: ★★★☆☆ |
| Reference Price |
Value: ★★★★☆ Price range: $28~$45/lb |
| Best Season | Early summer to autumn |
| Did you know? | Its name means “one-eye snapper” for a unique line on eyes. |
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Overview |
Kanji Name: 目一鯛 (Meichidai) English Name: Japanese Parrot Snapper Scientific Name: Gymnocranius griseus Classification: • Kingdom: Animalia • Phylum: Chordata • Class: Actinopterygii • Order: Perciformes • Family: Lethrinidae • Genus: Gymnocranius • Species: G. griseus Average Size: 25–40 cm Key Features: Silver-white body with a distinctive dark marking between the eyes; mild, clean flavor and firm texture |
| 2. Habitat & Distribution |
Found in coastal waters of Japan, Taiwan, and parts of the Indo-Pacific. Prefers sandy or rocky seabeds near reefs. Typically caught with small-scale coastal fishing. |
| 3. Seasonality |
Best season is early summer to autumn. Peak fat content just before spawning in late summer. |
| 4. Sushi Ingredient Profile |
Common Uses: Nigiri, sashimi, grilled (shioyaki), simmered Flavor: Delicate, slightly sweet flavor with a clean finish Texture: Firm yet tender flesh Fat Content: Low to moderate; light and refreshing |
| 5. Preparation & Craftsmanship |
Often served skin-on and lightly seared to enhance aroma. Requires careful handling to prevent drying out. Suitable for kombujime (kelp marination) to enhance umami. |
| 6. Recommended Pairings |
Sushi Rice: Lightly seasoned with white vinegar Condiments: Wasabi, shiso leaf, sea salt, ponzu Drinks: Crisp sake, light-bodied white wine |
| 7. Nutritional Information |
High in lean protein and low in fat. Contains essential minerals such as potassium and phosphorus. |
| 8. Trivia & Cultural Notes |
The name “Meichidai” means “eye-one sea bream,” referencing the distinct spot between its eyes. A seasonal specialty, especially prized in summer in western Japan. Less common than red sea bream, making it a subtle connoisseur’s choice. |
| 9. Recommended Sushi Styles |
• Meichidai nigiri with light aburi and sea salt • Meichidai sashimi served with ponzu • Kombujime meichidai for concentrated umami • Meichidai nigiri topped with grated yuzu zest |
