| Name (Japanese) | Japanese Whiting (Kisu / キス / 鱚) |
| Overall Rating |
Flavor: ★★★★☆ Texture: ★★★★☆ Popularity: ★★★★☆ |
| Reference Price |
Value: ★★★★☆ Price range: $20~$40/lb |
| Best Season | Late spring to early summer (May–July) |
| Did You Know? | Kisu is called “Queen of the Sea” or “White Snow Princess” for its beauty. |
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Overview |
Kanji Name: キス (Kisu) English Name: Japanese Whiting Scientific Name: Sillago japonica Classification: • Kingdom: Animalia • Phylum: Chordata • Class: Actinopterygii • Order: Perciformes • Family: Sillaginidae • Genus: Sillago • Species: S. japonica Average Size: 15–25 cm Key Features: Mild, delicate white flesh; slender silver body; highly valued for tempura and sushi |
| 2. Habitat & Distribution |
Found in coastal waters of Japan, Korea, and China. Prefers sandy seabeds in shallow areas. Commonly caught near shores in summer. |
| 3. Seasonality |
Best season is early summer (June–August). Peak flavor when freshly caught in warm months. |
| 4. Sushi Ingredient Profile |
Common Uses: Tempura, nigiri, sashimi, grilled Flavor: Light, clean, mildly sweet Texture: Tender, flaky Fat Content: Very low; emphasizes freshness |
| 5. Preparation & Craftsmanship |
Best enjoyed as tempura or lightly grilled. When used in sushi, served as fillets with delicate seasoning. Requires gentle handling to maintain its soft texture. |
| 6. Recommended Pairings |
Sushi Rice: Lightly seasoned, not overpowering Condiments: Salt, citrus (sudachi, yuzu), wasabi Drinks: Dry sake, crisp lager, light white wine |
| 7. Nutritional Information |
Low in fat, high in lean protein. Contains vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3s. Supports muscle health and metabolism. |
| 8. Trivia & Cultural Notes |
Kisu is a classic summer fish in Japan. Often featured in seasonal tempura dishes. Praised for its refreshing, subtle taste. |
| 9. Recommended Sushi Styles |
• Kisu tempura nigiri • Raw Kisu sashimi • Lightly grilled Kisu sushi • Kisu with citrus and salt |
