FUGU (PUFFERFISH) DISHES / Usuki City

Usuki City in Oita Prefecture faces the Bungo Channel (the sea area stretching between Oita and Ehime Prefectures), and is known for having Torafugu (tiger puffer), fondly referred to as the “King of Pufferfish” since they get battered by the rapid flow of the Bungo Channel. These tiger puffer are notable for their lean flesh, moderate fat and harmonious umami flavour.

Unlike the delicate thin slices that are the norm throughout the country, Usuki fugu fish is too fresh to be sliced thinly, and so it is served in slightly thicker slices instead. Each piece has a strong presence and a firm texture, with its umami spreading the more you chew. The taste of the puffer fish is enhanced when served with locally produced ponzu which is combination of local Kabosu citrus juice and soy sauce. There are many fugu restaurants in Usuki City serving dishes such as sashimi (raw sliced fish), chirinabe (fish stew), grilled fugu and fried fugu. The appeal of being able to savour the exquisite flavour of Fugu all year round draws visitors from all over Japan to Usuki City.