Description
ホタルイカ HOTARUIKA - FRESH BOILED FIREFLY SQUID - Watasenia scintillans
Location/Origin
Toyama or Hyogo
Size/Weight
300g Tray
Texture/Flavor Profile
Hotaruika offers a tender, slightly firm texture with a natural, delicate sweetness. The flesh is mild but rich in oceanic flavor, while the small, translucent body provides a satisfying bite. With a hint of briny, fresh taste, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a subtle yet flavorful seafood experience.
Availability/Seasonality
Fresh Hotaruika is available primarily during the spring months, when the squid are at their peak. These tiny creatures are highly seasonal, with the best catches coming in the cooler, early months of the year. Their short window of availability makes them a special seasonal delicacy.
About
Hotaruika, or Watasenia scintillans, is a species of bioluminescent squid native to Japanese waters. Known for their tiny size and unique glowing ability, these squids have long been appreciated in Japanese cuisine. Caught fresh, Hotaruika is often served raw in sushi or sashimi, offering a delicate balance of sweetness and a smooth, slightly chewy texture that seafood lovers adore.
Preparation
Hotaruika can be enjoyed raw, served as sushi, or in sashimi, where its natural sweetness and delicate texture shine. It can also be lightly sautéed or incorporated into tempura dishes. Its small size and tender texture make it an excellent addition to seafood salads or as a topping for rice. Serve fresh, and handle gently to preserve its delicate nature.
Nutritional Value
Hotaruika is low in fat, yet packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, including Omega-3 fatty acids. It provides a nutritious, light source of energy and a heart-healthy option. Its rich nutrient profile makes it a healthy choice for seafood lovers looking to add variety to their diet.
Selection and Storage
Select firefly squid with a translucent, firm body, ensuring they’re free of bruising. Store them in the coldest part of your refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture. If freezing, do so quickly to preserve their quality, and use within a few weeks.
Summary
Hotaruika is a delicate, sweet, and tender squid, prized for its unique bioluminescence and exceptional flavor. Available seasonally, it is a perfect addition to sushi, sashimi, or light dishes, offering a mild, oceanic taste that delights seafood enthusiasts looking for something special.Â
Location/Origin
Toyama or Hyogo
Size/Weight
300g Tray
Texture/Flavor Profile
Hotaruika offers a tender, slightly firm texture with a natural, delicate sweetness. The flesh is mild but rich in oceanic flavor, while the small, translucent body provides a satisfying bite. With a hint of briny, fresh taste, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a subtle yet flavorful seafood experience.
Availability/Seasonality
Fresh Hotaruika is available primarily during the spring months, when the squid are at their peak. These tiny creatures are highly seasonal, with the best catches coming in the cooler, early months of the year. Their short window of availability makes them a special seasonal delicacy.
About
Hotaruika, or Watasenia scintillans, is a species of bioluminescent squid native to Japanese waters. Known for their tiny size and unique glowing ability, these squids have long been appreciated in Japanese cuisine. Caught fresh, Hotaruika is often served raw in sushi or sashimi, offering a delicate balance of sweetness and a smooth, slightly chewy texture that seafood lovers adore.
Preparation
Hotaruika can be enjoyed raw, served as sushi, or in sashimi, where its natural sweetness and delicate texture shine. It can also be lightly sautéed or incorporated into tempura dishes. Its small size and tender texture make it an excellent addition to seafood salads or as a topping for rice. Serve fresh, and handle gently to preserve its delicate nature.
Nutritional Value
Hotaruika is low in fat, yet packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, including Omega-3 fatty acids. It provides a nutritious, light source of energy and a heart-healthy option. Its rich nutrient profile makes it a healthy choice for seafood lovers looking to add variety to their diet.
Selection and Storage
Select firefly squid with a translucent, firm body, ensuring they’re free of bruising. Store them in the coldest part of your refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture. If freezing, do so quickly to preserve their quality, and use within a few weeks.
Summary
Hotaruika is a delicate, sweet, and tender squid, prized for its unique bioluminescence and exceptional flavor. Available seasonally, it is a perfect addition to sushi, sashimi, or light dishes, offering a mild, oceanic taste that delights seafood enthusiasts looking for something special.Â