| Name (Japanese) | Pink Prawn (Botan-ebi / ボタンエビ / 牡丹海老) |
| 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? | All are male until age four; four or five, they change sex to female. |
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Overview |
Kanji Name: 牡丹海老 (Botan-ebi) English Name: Botan Shrimp Scientific Name: Aristaeopsis edwardsiana Classification: • Kingdom: Animalia • Phylum: Arthropoda • Class: Malacostraca • Order: Decapoda • Family: Pandalidae • Genus: Aristaeopsis • Species: A. edwardsiana Average Size: 8–15 cm Key Features: Sweet, tender meat; translucent pink-red shell; prized in sushi and sashimi |
| 2. Habitat & Distribution |
Found in cold northern Pacific waters. Common around Hokkaido and northern Japan. Prefers sandy or muddy seabeds at 100–400 m depth. |
| 3. Seasonality |
Best season is spring to early summer (April–July). Peak sweetness occurs when shrimp are mature and freshly caught. |
| 4. Sushi Ingredient Profile |
Common Uses: Nigiri, sashimi, lightly boiled Flavor: Sweet, delicate, clean Texture: Tender, slightly firm Fat Content: Low; emphasizes natural sweetness |
| 5. Preparation & Craftsmanship |
Served raw or lightly boiled to enhance sweetness. Tail often kept intact for presentation. Careful handling preserves delicate texture and flavor. |
| 6. Recommended Pairings |
Sushi Rice: Lightly seasoned with white vinegar Condiments: Wasabi, citrus ponzu, yuzu zest Drinks: Dry sake, crisp white wine, light beer |
| 7. Nutritional Information |
High in protein, low in fat. Contains selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Supports cardiovascular and immune health. |
| 8. Trivia & Cultural Notes |
Botan-ebi is a spring delicacy in northern Japan. Often served in sushi and kaiseki cuisine. Valued for its bright color and natural sweetness. |
| 9. Recommended Sushi Styles |
• Raw Botan-ebi nigiri • Lightly boiled Botan-ebi sashimi • Botan-ebi in sushi rolls • Served with yuzu or ponzu dressing |
