Description
メバル MEBARU - FRESH WILD MARBLED ROCKFISH - Sebastes Cuvier
Location/Origin
Aomori
Size/Weight
0.5 KG per piece (Actual Weight May Vary)
Texture/Flavor Profile
Mebaru, also known as the Japanese Red Seaperch or Dark-Banded Rockfish, offers a tender, yet firm, flaky texture that holds up well during cooking. The flesh is white and mildly sweet, with a hint of umami that intensifies when prepared. Its flavor is delicate yet flavorful, making it an excellent choice for various Japanese cooking styles. This rockfish is particularly valued for its versatility and ability to adapt well to multiple cooking techniques.
Availability/Seasonality
Mebaru is predominantly found in the northwestern Pacific, with its range extending from southern Hokkaido to Kyushu in Japan, and along the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It is available year-round, but the best quality specimens are typically caught in spring and early summer when the fish is at its plumpest and most flavorful.
About
Scientific Name: Sebastes inermis
Mebaru belongs to the family Scorpaenidae, also known as rockfish, and is a significant species for fisheries in Japan. The name "inermis" means “unarmed,” referring to the relatively small spines on its head compared to other rockfish. These fish can grow up to 35.9 cm (14.1 in) in length and weigh up to 800 g (1.8 lbs). This demersal fish has a distinctive dark red to pale brown body, with sharp lachrymal spines and large pectoral fins that reach beyond the level of the anus.
Preparation
Mebaru is a versatile fish that can be cooked in numerous ways. It's particularly popular when prepared as "nitsuke" (simmered in a soy-based broth), where the flavors of the broth enhance the natural sweetness of the fish. It also holds up well when grilled, making it an excellent candidate for "yakimono" preparations, where the skin crisps up beautifully. The firm, white flesh is ideal for sashimi or sushi, showcasing its mild sweetness and delicate texture. Mebaru is also often used in hot pot dishes (nabemono), and its firm flesh doesn't break apart when cooked in soups or stews.
Nutritional Value
Mebaru is a nutritious fish, rich in high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diners. It is low in fat and provides essential vitamins such as Vitamin D and B12, along with minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium.
Selection and Storage
When selecting fresh Mebaru, look for fish with bright, clear eyes and shiny skin. The flesh should be firm to the touch, with no strong or unpleasant odor. Its skin should have a glossy, slightly moist appearance. To maintain freshness, store Mebaru in a chilled environment, preferably on ice, and consume it as soon as possible for the best quality.
Summary
Mebaru, the Fresh Wild Marbled Rockfish, is a versatile and highly prized fish known for its tender, flaky texture and delicate, sweet flavor. This species is popular in Japanese cuisine for its adaptability to various cooking styles, including grilling, simmering, sashimi, and sushi. With its nutritious profile and exceptional taste, Mebaru is a fantastic addition to any chef’s repertoire.
Location/Origin
Aomori
Size/Weight
0.5 KG per piece (Actual Weight May Vary)
Texture/Flavor Profile
Mebaru, also known as the Japanese Red Seaperch or Dark-Banded Rockfish, offers a tender, yet firm, flaky texture that holds up well during cooking. The flesh is white and mildly sweet, with a hint of umami that intensifies when prepared. Its flavor is delicate yet flavorful, making it an excellent choice for various Japanese cooking styles. This rockfish is particularly valued for its versatility and ability to adapt well to multiple cooking techniques.
Availability/Seasonality
Mebaru is predominantly found in the northwestern Pacific, with its range extending from southern Hokkaido to Kyushu in Japan, and along the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It is available year-round, but the best quality specimens are typically caught in spring and early summer when the fish is at its plumpest and most flavorful.
About
Scientific Name: Sebastes inermis
Mebaru belongs to the family Scorpaenidae, also known as rockfish, and is a significant species for fisheries in Japan. The name "inermis" means “unarmed,” referring to the relatively small spines on its head compared to other rockfish. These fish can grow up to 35.9 cm (14.1 in) in length and weigh up to 800 g (1.8 lbs). This demersal fish has a distinctive dark red to pale brown body, with sharp lachrymal spines and large pectoral fins that reach beyond the level of the anus.
Preparation
Mebaru is a versatile fish that can be cooked in numerous ways. It's particularly popular when prepared as "nitsuke" (simmered in a soy-based broth), where the flavors of the broth enhance the natural sweetness of the fish. It also holds up well when grilled, making it an excellent candidate for "yakimono" preparations, where the skin crisps up beautifully. The firm, white flesh is ideal for sashimi or sushi, showcasing its mild sweetness and delicate texture. Mebaru is also often used in hot pot dishes (nabemono), and its firm flesh doesn't break apart when cooked in soups or stews.
Nutritional Value
Mebaru is a nutritious fish, rich in high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diners. It is low in fat and provides essential vitamins such as Vitamin D and B12, along with minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium.
Selection and Storage
When selecting fresh Mebaru, look for fish with bright, clear eyes and shiny skin. The flesh should be firm to the touch, with no strong or unpleasant odor. Its skin should have a glossy, slightly moist appearance. To maintain freshness, store Mebaru in a chilled environment, preferably on ice, and consume it as soon as possible for the best quality.
Summary
Mebaru, the Fresh Wild Marbled Rockfish, is a versatile and highly prized fish known for its tender, flaky texture and delicate, sweet flavor. This species is popular in Japanese cuisine for its adaptability to various cooking styles, including grilling, simmering, sashimi, and sushi. With its nutritious profile and exceptional taste, Mebaru is a fantastic addition to any chef’s repertoire.