Prawn and crab
Broad velvet shrimp (Shiro ebi)
【Nigiri sushi: Ebi/Kani】
Shiraebi (Broad velvet shrimp) is an endemic species found only along the coast of Japan and is found in the Sea of Enshu, Suruga Bay, and Sagami Bay on the Pacific Ocean side. However, it is only in Toyama Bay on the Sea of Japan side that they are caught in large volumes.
Shiraebi loses its freshness quickly, so at one time it could only be eaten fresh in the production area around Toyama Bay. Thanks to advancements in distribution, in recent years it has become available even in markets located far away.
Fresher Shiraebi is characterized by the softness that fits well with Shari, the subtle and sophisticated sweetness, and the delicate flavor. Marinating with kelp (Kobujime) and then making it into Nigiri sushi really brings out the sweetness making it a first-rate piece of sushi. It is also good in Gunkan maki (battleship rolls), but if possible it’s better as Nigiri sushi, laid directly on the Shari.