What is aoyagi in sushi?青柳
This time, I looked into the various names and seasons for sushi aoyagi.
How to call aoyagi
【aoyagi】round clam アオヤギ 青柳
Aoyagi is a type of bivalve mollusk also known as bakagai. There is a theory that it was named “bakagai” because it looks like a fool, and another theory that it was called “bakagai” because the red part sticks out of the shell.
Also, depending on the region, it is called Minatogai, Shiofukigai, or Ubagai. It is said that the name comes from the resemblance of the tip to a willow leaf.
The peak season for aoyagi
Aoyagi (bakagai), a sushi topping, is in season from early spring to the end of May. Especially June is the spawning season, so people tend to avoid this period. Also, in terms of prices, they are lowest in the summer, rise in the fall, reach their peak in November, and then become cheaper from winter to spring.
Aoyagi (Bakagai) is popular as a sushi topping for its light taste, and its deliciousness is even more appealing especially when it’s in season. By tasting Aoyagi sushi when it is in season, you can enjoy its freshness and flavor to the fullest.
