Surf Clam · 北寄貝 (ほっきがい)

Raw it's greyish-purple; blanched it turns striking red-and-white. Sweet, firm, and satisfying.

Hokkigai turns its signature red color only when briefly blanched — raw surf clam is actually grey.

Category: kai · Season: winter (peak Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb) · Origin: Hokkaido, Canada

Preparations

Nigiri 握り · Sashimi 刺身 · Temaki 手卷

Shun 旬 — a field guide and tasting diary for sushi lovers.