| Name (Japanese) | Sardine (Iwashi / イワシ / 鰯) |
| Overall Rating |
Flavor: ★★★★☆ Texture: ★★★☆☆ Popularity: ★★★☆☆ |
| Reference Price |
Value: ★★★★★ Price range: $5~$15/lb |
| Best Season | Autumn to early winter (September–December) |
| Did You Know? | Sardines spoil very quickly, so their kanji 鰯 literally means “weak fish.” |
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Overview |
Official Name: Ma-iwashi (マイワシ) Kanji Name: 鰯 (Iwashi) English Name: Sardine Scientific Name: Sardinops melanostictus (Japanese Sardine) Classification: • Kingdom: Animalia • Phylum: Chordata • Class: Actinopterygii • Order: Clupeiformes • Family: Clupeidae • Genus: Sardinops • Species: S. melanostictus Average Size: 15–25 cm Key Features: Oily, rich in umami; soft flesh; highly nutritious with omega-3 |
| 2. Habitat & Distribution |
Found in coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean. Common around Japan, Korea, and China. Lives in large schools near the surface. |
| 3. Seasonality |
Best season is autumn to winter. Fat content peaks between September and December. |
| 4. Sushi Ingredient Profile |
Common Uses: Nigiri, sashimi, grilled dishes Flavor: Bold, rich, umami-packed Texture: Soft, oily, melt-in-mouth Fat Content: High; flavorful and nutritious |
| 5. Preparation & Craftsmanship |
Often served fresh as sashimi or nigiri. Lightly cured with salt or vinegar to enhance flavor. Grilled whole for traditional Japanese dishes. |
| 6. Recommended Pairings |
Sushi Rice: Balanced seasoning to match richness Condiments: Ginger, green onion, shiso Drinks: Sake, shochu, light beer |
| 7. Nutritional Information |
Excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Rich in calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins. Promotes heart and bone health. |
| 8. Trivia & Cultural Notes |
Long valued as a staple in Japanese cuisine. Symbol of abundance due to its large schools. Essential fish in both traditional and modern dishes. |
| 9. Recommended Sushi Styles |
• Iwashi nigiri (with ginger and green onion) • Iwashi sashimi (fresh or lightly cured) • Grilled iwashi (whole fish) • Iwashi roll with shiso and ginger |
