| Name (Japanese) | Red Rockfish (Akoudai / アコウダイ / 赤魚鯛) |
| Overall Rating |
Flavor: ★★★★★ Texture: ★★★★☆ Popularity: ★★★☆☆ |
| Reference Price |
Value: ★★★★★ Price range: $15~$28/lb |
| Best Season | Winter to early spring |
| Did You Know? | Lives at depths of 500–700m and gives birth to live young instead of eggs. |
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Overview |
Kanji Name: 赤魚鯛 (Akoudai) English Name: Red Rockfish Scientific Name: Sebastes matsubarae Classification: • Kingdom: Animalia • Phylum: Chordata • Class: Actinopterygii • Order: Scorpaeniformes • Family: Scorpaenidae • Genus: Sebastes • Species: S. matsubarae Average Size: 30–50 cm Key Features: Bright red body with large eyes, firm white flesh, rich and savory flavor |
| 2. Habitat & Distribution |
Found in deep coastal waters of the Northwest Pacific. Common around Japan, especially off northern Honshu and Hokkaido. Prefers rocky seabeds at depths of 200–500 meters. |
| 3. Seasonality |
Best season is winter to early spring (December–March). Peak flavor when fat content increases in cold waters. |
| 4. Sushi Ingredient Profile |
Common Uses: Nigiri, sashimi, simmered dishes, grilled Flavor: Rich umami, mildly sweet, deep ocean taste Texture: Firm and slightly flaky Fat Content: Moderate, higher in winter |
| 5. Preparation & Craftsmanship |
Often served simmered in soy-based broth (nitsuke) to highlight sweetness. Grilling with salt enhances natural oils. Sashimi is delicate and best served ultra-fresh. |
| 6. Recommended Pairings |
Sushi Rice: Lightly seasoned with rice vinegar Condiments: Wasabi, grated daikon, soy sauce Drinks: Junmai sake, light lager, green tea |
| 7. Nutritional Information |
High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Contains vitamins A, D, and minerals like selenium. Supports skin health and heart function. |
| 8. Trivia & Cultural Notes |
Akoudai is a favored ingredient in traditional Japanese winter cuisine. Its vivid red color makes it a popular choice for festive dishes. Considered a luxury fish due to its deep-sea habitat. |
| 9. Recommended Sushi Styles |
• Akoudai nigiri with a touch of salt • Akoudai sashimi with citrus soy • Grilled akoudai with salt • Simmered akoudai in soy-based broth |
