Hapu upu u
One of the richest Grouper-like species in the world.
Clean, Sweet, Super Moist
Quick Facts
Commonly Known As:
- Hawaiian Mero, Hawaiian Grouper
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Species Name
Grouper
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Latin Name
Hyporthodus quernus
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Origin
Hawaii & Open Pacific
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Harvest Method
Hook & Line
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Range & Habitat
Southern Pacific & Hawaii
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Producer
The Hawaiian Fleet
Range & Habitat
The Hawaiian Fleet
Hawaii's Market is unique; boats fishing local waters bring their bounty in to be offloaded into Hawaii's auction, "United Fishing Agency Auction." Hawaiian auction bidders know their favorite boats, handling practices and ordering days. Each buyer takes their prized winning bid back to the plant each day and grades it for national distribution next day.
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Flakey, Moderate, Moist, Light
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.
Paper White, Flakey
Atlantic Cod is the most used species in "Fish & Chips". That does not mean that it isn't spectacular for Upscale Casual and Fine Dining fare. It boast incredible richness and silkiness. The paper white appearance of the flesh is a perfect contrast to various colors used in "sets".
Moderate, Firm, Flaky, Clean
Baquetta is a great option in the Grouper realm. Flavorful and sweet with a great tooth to the cooked flesh. Deep red lines in the white to pink fillet offer a complexity of flavor without tasting bitter or "off". Baquetta can grow large and offer "baseball" cuts, or 3-5 lb fish can yield a beautiful plank.