Naruto Sea Bream (鳴門鯛)

Order sashimi in Naruto and the white fish on your plate may push back a little when you bite. That fish is often Naruto sea bream (鳴門鯛), known locally as Narutodai. It is Japanese red sea bream, or madai, from the fast waters around the Naruto Strait in Tokushima Prefecture. So what makes it different from any other sea bream? This guide explains the name, the currents, the taste, the seasons and the dishes. It also separates what local sources claim from what researchers have confirmed. TOCWhat Is Naruto Sea Bream? Naruto sea bream is not a separate species. Instead, the name works as a regional label for madai (Pagrus major) from the Naruto area. Japan’s Fisheries Agency lists madai under that scientific name, and Tokushima’s fisheries bodies apply the Naruto name to it. Quick Facts Japanese name鳴門鯛 (Narutodai, Naruto-dai) SpeciesJapanese red sea bream, madai (Pagrus major) AreaNaruto Strait, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture, Shikoku Known forFirm flesh and a resilient bite Prized seasonsEspecially spring (sakuradai) and autumn (momijidai) Fishing methodsMaki-e line fishing and small fixed nets (tai-ami) Typical dishesSashimi, blanched or seared sashimi, tai meshi, grilled and ...