Hamachi – [Sushi|Foodlore]

Description

• Hamachi.  – (“Yellow-Tail”, Amberjack.) – Kanji: 魬. – Aka: “鰤 Buri”, “Mojako.” 

• About this fish: Not to be confused with the similarly named “Yellowfin tuna” (Kihada) – Amberjack is a very meaty, oily, savoury fish with a long body and bright yellow tail. it is a much closer relative to Jackfish and Mackerel but chefs will often serve it as a substitute for tuna as they have a similar appearance as well as that ‘melt in your mouth’ quality. Because of this, they are quite often given the misnomer of ‘Yellowtail Tuna.’ (Except, they are not tuna!!!) in some parts of the world they’re also known as the “Kingfish.” – To make the naming matters even more confusing, In Japan, this fish goes by several names throughout its life; it is a good example of a “Shuesso Fish” (出世魚) also known as a “Promotional Fish” A general term for fish whos names change as they grow/age (they get “Ranks/Promotions”) throughout their lifetime, usually depending on the fish’s size. Frustratingly, oftentimes these names will often change between region, thus the fish might be called something different in north japan but be called something else in east japan! – depending wherever/whenever they’re caught! (So, it’s near impossible to list all of the alternate names ever. (Another reason why “hon” is often used to denote the “Genuine fish” in markets.) – This custom of giving fish progressing names, originated with both Scholars and Samurai in the Edo-period, who celebrated their job progressions & promotions by changing their names & titles (When they reached certain age milestones, a job promotion, etc.) because of this advancing custom: A fish whose taste changes for the better during its growth also became known as “Shuesso Fish” – These fish are often said to be particularly good luck to eat on certain holidays, milestone dates, & especially to celebrate work related promotions!-  The Youngest / Smallest Amberjacks are usually called “Mojako.” while; “Hamachi’ is the middlemost, young adult stage of the fish “Buri” is the oldest fattiest variety, especially served in the wintertime when they’ve grown to be over 30cm long! – Elsewhere (especially America) hamachi is also the generic word for farm-rasied amberjack.

[Sticker art by @Samkalensky, Part of my Nigiri Sushi/Foodlore collections.]