Description
松川カレイ MATSUKAWA GAREI - FRESH WILD BARFIN FLOUNDER - Verasper moseri Jordan & Gilbert
Karei
Location
Hokkaido
Size/Weight
1 KG per piece (Actual Weight May Vary)
Texture/Flavor Profile
Matsukawa Karei, also known as Barfin Flounder, offers a luxurious texture with thick, firm flesh that melts in the mouth. The meat is beautifully marbled with fat, making it a prized choice among chefs seeking a rich, buttery flavor profile. Its flavor is delicate and refined, with a mild sweetness and subtle hints of umami that shine through when served as sashimi or sushi.
Availability/Seasonality
This premium fish is harvested from the waters of northern Japan, specifically from the Pacific coast north of Ibaraki Prefecture, the northern part of the Sea of Japan, the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, and the Kuril Islands. Matsukawa Karei is typically available year-round, but it reaches peak quality and flavor during the winter months, making it a sought-after delicacy in colder seasons.
About
The Barfin Flounder (Verasper moseri) is a flatfish belonging to the Pleuronectidae family, recognized for its distinctive appearance, including its pine-bark-like lenticels on the skin. It’s often referred to by various names, such as "Yellowfin Flounder," "Tantaka," and "Yamabushi," depending on the region in Japan. The species is known for its significant size, with males growing up to 50 cm and females up to 80 cm. It has been dubbed "The King of Flounder" due to its rarity and high-quality flesh.
Preparation
Matsukawa Karei is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in various ways to suit different culinary applications. Its firm texture makes it ideal for sashimi, where the meat's delicate, almost translucent slices can be savored for their pure flavor. It can also be served grilled, simmered, or fried, highlighting its natural richness. The fish's skin, when slightly seared, adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making it perfect for sushi presentations.
Nutritional Value
As a lean fish, Matsukawa Karei is an excellent source of high-quality protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. It contains a healthy amount of vitamins, including Vitamin D and B12, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. This fish is known for its health benefits, contributing to a balanced diet while offering a premium culinary experience.
Selection and Storage
When selecting Matsukawa Karei, look for fish with clear eyes, shiny skin, and a fresh, briny aroma. The flesh should be firm to the touch and free from discoloration. For optimal freshness, store the fish at a temperature close to freezing and consume it within a couple of days to enjoy its peak quality.
Summary
Matsukawa Karei, or Barfin Flounder, is a delicacy renowned for its rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It has earned a reputation as the "King of Flounder" among seafood enthusiasts and is a prized choice for chefs looking to create exquisite dishes. With its high-quality meat, versatility in preparation, and availability during colder months, it is an exceptional addition to any gourmet seafood menu.
Karei
Location
Hokkaido
Size/Weight
1 KG per piece (Actual Weight May Vary)
Texture/Flavor Profile
Matsukawa Karei, also known as Barfin Flounder, offers a luxurious texture with thick, firm flesh that melts in the mouth. The meat is beautifully marbled with fat, making it a prized choice among chefs seeking a rich, buttery flavor profile. Its flavor is delicate and refined, with a mild sweetness and subtle hints of umami that shine through when served as sashimi or sushi.
Availability/Seasonality
This premium fish is harvested from the waters of northern Japan, specifically from the Pacific coast north of Ibaraki Prefecture, the northern part of the Sea of Japan, the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, and the Kuril Islands. Matsukawa Karei is typically available year-round, but it reaches peak quality and flavor during the winter months, making it a sought-after delicacy in colder seasons.
About
The Barfin Flounder (Verasper moseri) is a flatfish belonging to the Pleuronectidae family, recognized for its distinctive appearance, including its pine-bark-like lenticels on the skin. It’s often referred to by various names, such as "Yellowfin Flounder," "Tantaka," and "Yamabushi," depending on the region in Japan. The species is known for its significant size, with males growing up to 50 cm and females up to 80 cm. It has been dubbed "The King of Flounder" due to its rarity and high-quality flesh.
Preparation
Matsukawa Karei is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in various ways to suit different culinary applications. Its firm texture makes it ideal for sashimi, where the meat's delicate, almost translucent slices can be savored for their pure flavor. It can also be served grilled, simmered, or fried, highlighting its natural richness. The fish's skin, when slightly seared, adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making it perfect for sushi presentations.
Nutritional Value
As a lean fish, Matsukawa Karei is an excellent source of high-quality protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. It contains a healthy amount of vitamins, including Vitamin D and B12, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. This fish is known for its health benefits, contributing to a balanced diet while offering a premium culinary experience.
Selection and Storage
When selecting Matsukawa Karei, look for fish with clear eyes, shiny skin, and a fresh, briny aroma. The flesh should be firm to the touch and free from discoloration. For optimal freshness, store the fish at a temperature close to freezing and consume it within a couple of days to enjoy its peak quality.
Summary
Matsukawa Karei, or Barfin Flounder, is a delicacy renowned for its rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It has earned a reputation as the "King of Flounder" among seafood enthusiasts and is a prized choice for chefs looking to create exquisite dishes. With its high-quality meat, versatility in preparation, and availability during colder months, it is an exceptional addition to any gourmet seafood menu.