Kohada – [Sushi|Foodlore]

Description

• Kohada. – Gizzard Shad – 鮗 – (aka: Kohada 小鰭, , Konoshiro 鮗)

• About this fish: Often considered to be the most delicious of the silver skinned fish and the definitive test of a chefs know -ow. When prepared properly the taste is rich and fatty, but also buttery & subtly bitter-sweet. (Though the overall taste might change depending on the size of the fish/time of year you eat it at. it’s another “Suessho fish” with multiple names dependant on the age/size of the fish.) Sadly, shad generally seems to be missing from most North American menus, but in Japan; it’s one of the most iconic sushi picks among gourmets and casual sushi foodies alike. The way the fish is presented & prepared is said to be the definitive example of both the skill & creativity of the chef, as well as good indicator of the quality of the restaurant in general. – This is because Shad is always specially seasoned before serving; sprinkled with salt, marinated in vinegar & then served the following day!  It’s quite the production, This seasoning requires proficient skill, timing & know how to get it tasting just so. You’ll also often see fancy cutting preparations for this fish. – In the summer time; several filets of younger shad may also be served on a single piece of nigiri at once, The fish’s meat may be folded to criss-cross over itself creating a very fancy look. – The variety of ways to prepare and serve kohada is endless, often high-end restaurants have a ‘signature cut or look’ to how they choose to present it. (the criss cross cut is iconic so chose that for mine.)- Incidentally, The English name of “Gizzard shad” is said to be named as such because the fish supposedly has a ‘Gizzard’ in its stomach (Much like a chicken does) The fish is said to digest stuff by eating sand & small pebbles! (But, does it actually work like that? I dunno, I’m no biologist, just an artist and an arm-chair fish nerd!)

This nigiri features heavily in old Ukiyo-e (woodblock art prints.) so its been popular for a long time!  –

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