TASTY TRAVEL Vol. 28 No. 4 January 2015
Saga Aranabe
Ara, also referred to as kue in Japan, are long tooth grouper, a fish that may reach lengths of more than one meter. With very small catches, ara are referred to as “the phantom fish.” Although the fish itself may appear grotesque, its somewhat fatty white flesh has a refined flavor. Aranabe is a popular nabe (hot-pot) that includes tender, tasty chunks of ara, Japanese long onion, napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, tofu and other vegetables in a kombu dashi broth. When eating, the fish and vegetables are dipped in ponzu sauce. This dish is a special treat enjoyed during autumn festivals in Karatsu, a city in Saga Prefecture in northwest Kyushu.
Vol. 28
