What is anago in sushi?穴子
This time, I looked into the various names and seasons for sushi anago.
How to call anago
【anago】conger eel アナゴ 穴子
Common conger eel refers to a species called maanago. The name conger eel comes from the fact that it often hides in holes in the sand during the day, giving it the appearance of “cooping up in a hole.”
The name changes depending on the region, and in some areas it is called conger eel, while in the waters around the Kanto region it is called hakarime, and because its shape looks like an eel, it is also called mejiro eel, which is compared to a completely different fish species from sea eel.
The peak season for ainame
Conger eel season is generally considered to be from June to August. Conger eel at this time of year has less fat and has a refreshing taste. However, conger eel eaten in the winter from November to December is also said to be delicious, and seems to be a fish that people have different tastes about. In winter, there is an abundance of food, and the conger eel has fat on it, so some say this is the season. Also, the season for conger eel may vary depending on the region. For example, in Shimane and Miyagi prefectures, the season is from September to May.
Conger eel is a fish that is loved for its light taste, so it is considered to be in season during the summer when it can be eaten refreshingly. However, conger eel can now be eaten all year round, so you can enjoy it regardless of the season. Why not try tasting conger eel, which has different characteristics in each season? You can enjoy the light taste in the summer, and the rich and rich flavor in the winter. Conger eel in both seasons has its own charm.
