| Name (Japanese) | Yellowtail (Hamachi / ハマチ / 魬) |
| Overall Rating |
Flavor: ★★★★☆ Texture: ★★★★☆ Popularity: ★★★★★ |
| Reference Price |
Value: ★★★★☆ Price range: $15~$35/lb |
| Best Season | Late autumn to early spring (November–March) |
| Did You Know? | Hamachi is young buri, a “progressive-fish” changes name as it grows. |
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Overview |
Kanji Name: 鰤 (Buri) / 魬 (Hamachi) English Name: Yellowtail Scientific Name: Seriola quinqueradiata Classification: • Kingdom: Animalia • Phylum: Chordata • Class: Actinopterygii • Order: Carangiformes • Family: Carangidae • Genus: Seriola • Species: Seriola quinqueradiata Average Size: 40–80 cm (hamachi size) Key Features: Firm, oily flesh with a rich, buttery flavor; popular in sushi and sashimi |
| 2. Habitat & Distribution |
Found in coastal waters around Japan and the Pacific. Commonly farmed in addition to wild catch. Prefers temperate waters and is often caught near shorelines and offshore farms. |
| 3. Seasonality |
Best season is late autumn to early spring (November–March), when fat content is highest. Young fish called “hamachi” are especially prized in winter. |
| 4. Sushi Ingredient Profile |
Common Uses: Nigiri, sashimi, grilled, and seared (aburi) Flavor: Rich, buttery, slightly sweet Texture: Firm yet tender with a pleasant oily mouthfeel Fat Content: Moderate to high, especially in winter |
| 5. Preparation & Craftsmanship |
Often served raw or lightly seared to enhance umami. Requires careful temperature control to maintain texture and freshness. Sometimes aged briefly to deepen flavor. |
| 6. Recommended Pairings |
Sushi Rice: Slightly vinegared white rice Condiments: Wasabi, soy sauce, grated ginger, lemon zest Drinks: Dry sake, crisp white wine, or light beer |
| 7. Nutritional Information |
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. Contains vitamins D and B12. Moderate calorie content due to fat. |
| 8. Trivia & Cultural Notes |
Hamachi is the juvenile form of buri (Japanese amberjack). Considered a symbol of good fortune and longevity in Japan. Popular year-round but especially favored during winter months. |
| 9. Recommended Sushi Styles |
• Hamachi nigiri with a touch of wasabi • Hamachi sashimi served with grated ginger • Aburi (lightly seared) hamachi nigiri • Hamachi tataki (lightly seared and chopped with garlic and scallions) |
