Flame Snapper Onaga

Nantucket Sushi Fluke is a “Left- Eyed” Flatfish. They inhabit chilly waters. This results in a moist fish from body “fat”,that regulates their temperature, and protects the fish from cold environments. “Sushi” Fluke are the step above other smaller Flatfish in this regard and are comparable to tiny Halibut.

Orange Roughy has a brilliant flake that is rivaled only by the highest quality in Snappers, Groupers, Sea Bass and Sea Bream. It has a luxurious moisture content that comes from an incredibly deep habitat. Found nearly 4000 feet below the ocean's surface, the Orange Roughy is a cold water dweller that packs on the fat for survival. This translates to enormous succulence. Its fillet shape is reminiscent of Tai Snapper and other Sea Breams. It has a mild and sweet flavor that accepts a multitude of light herb and spice combinations, and graciously plays off of vinaigrettes and butter sauces. It sears well and is applicable in almost every cooking method.

Like other premium Hawaiian snappers, Uku has a clear, pale pink flesh that is delicately flavored. The oil content is high, the flake is medium and the moisture content is moderate. Some local chefs argue the Uku has a slightly fuller flavor than the sub-tile Opakapaka. The sashimi grade flesh will take high heat well and firm and tighten once heat is applied. The Uku is a handsome fish which reminds me of the Eastern Seaboard Black Bass. It has a lighter colored grey skin, friendly looking eyes and a stream-lined head with a masculine jaw-line that appears to smile at you.  Uku harvested during the summer spawning season is often rich in natural fat, a desirable attribute for any sashimi application. Uku is one of the few cool to warm water temperature snappers that is safe to serve raw.