Loup De Mer

Kalekale is one of those great surprises that show up at Auction from time to time. When available it can represent one of the best Snapper characteristics in the culinary world. Extremely light and moist. It is almost indistinguishable from Opakapaka exept for the firmness and eye colorations.

Enlightened management measures are fundamental to any lobster fisheries self-sustainability and should always be the first choice when considering methods for increasing or preserving stock levels. Current Irish lobster fishery regulations include: a) A minimum size for the lobsters landed which is a carapace length of 87 mm. b) Ban on the landing of lobsters that have been “V” notched or have a mutilated tail fan. c) Prohibition of capture of lobsters by SCUBA diving, and d) Licensing of all commercial fishing vessels.

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.