Recently, I went to a sushi bar with my friends to try some sushi. Hokkigai sushi was what we ordered. Most of us immediately became a fan of this sushi! We were just experimenting, but it was delicious and couldn’t disappoint us, to our utter surprise!
What is Hokkigai sushi? Hokkigai Sushi is a type of sushi made with the arctic surf clam, also known as Stimpson’s surf clam. Hokkigai usually has a triangular shape and swollen red foot, this part is used in making Hokkigai sushi.
Most people might not be familiar with this sushi because of the unusual ingredient used in it and because of the name. My friends and I experimented with this particular sushi for the same reason.
After my visit to the bar, I did further research on Hokkigai sushi. You will get more details on our experience with Hokkigai sushi, in this blog post, how this is made, its taste, and its health benefits.
Use of Hokkigai In Sushi
This sushi has its origins in Japan. The name “Hokkigai” is Japanese, and it means “arctic surf clam.”
The foot of the clam is used in sushi, and it’s considered a delicacy there. The Arctic surf clam is also known as Stimpson’s surf clam.
Some reasons for people to use Hokkigai in sushi are:
The first is the taste. The Arctic surf clam is very delicate and sweet seafood. It has a light taste that is not too fishy, making it perfect for sushi.
Another reason is the texture. The foot of the clam is quite rubbery, giving it a unique texture that some people enjoy.
Lastly, the health benefits. It has many health benefits to offer.
The Hokkigai is also being used in other dishes such as sashimi, poke bowls, and even ramen. And sushi chefs are using it in nigiri, sashimi, and maki rolls.
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How Is Hokkigai Sushi Made?
Hokkigai sushi is made by using the foot of the arctic surf clam. It is usually triangular in shape and has a swollen red foot. The part used in making this sushi is the foot.
The clam is soaked in sake for a few minutes before it is cut open. The guts and other internal organs are removed, and then it is rinsed again. After that, it’s ready to be used in sushi.
Some people might find the taste of the raw clam a bit too fishy, but it can be disguised by using sushi rice and other ingredients.
Again, some people also lightly boil the clam before using it in sushi. This turns the foot of the clam red and the meat to be more firm.
Recipe of Spicy Hokkigai Sushi
Ingredients:
Hokkigai or Arctic Surf Clam, Sriracha sauce, and Mayonnaise
Instructions:
- First, peel and separate the clams. Then clean the guts, cut them into half and boil them for a while.
- After boiling keep them aside.
- Prepare the nori sheet with rice and lay the pieces of clam meat on them and add sriracha sauce and mayonnaise.
- Finally, roll all of it into sushi using a bamboo mat.
As you can see, making Hokkigai sushi is quite simple. You can experiment with different sauces and ingredients to find the perfect combination for you.
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What Does Hokkigai Sushi Taste Like?
Hokkigai sushi has a light and delicate taste. As I mentioned earlier, it is not too fishy. The texture is quite rubbery, as well.
The taste of the raw clam might be a bit too strong for some people, but I personally enjoy it. Arctic Surf Clams from Hokkigai have a meaty texture and a sweet flavor.
Overall, Hokkigai sushi is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for summertime eating!
Raw Hokkigai Sushi Or Cooked Hokkigai Sushi: Which One’s Better?
Some people might prefer to eat the cooked Hokkigai sushi, as it is less fishy and has a more firm texture. The raw Hokkigai sushi has a delicate taste and is quite rubbery.
It is up to you to decide which one you prefer. I would recommend trying both and see which one you like better.
LEARN MORE: What Is the Sweet Brown Sauce on Sushi?
How to Eat Hokkigai Sushi?
Hokkigai Sushi is best eaten with wasabi and soy sauce. The wasabi will help to mask the fishy taste of the clam, and the soy sauce will add a bit of saltiness to the dish.
You can also add pickled ginger (ginger that has been marinated in vinegar) to your hokkigai sushi. This will help to cleanse your palate between bites.
Some people might also enjoy eating Hokkigai sushi with a bit of lemon juice.
Finally, you can experiment with different sauces and ingredients to find the perfect combination for you.
LEARN MORE: What to Dip Sushi in Besides Soy Sauce?
Health Benefits of Hokkigai Sushi
Hokkigai Sushi is not only delicious but also nutritious. This is why many people have included Hokkigai in their diets. Some health benefits are:
- It is a good source of protein, iron, omega 3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12.
- Arctic surf clams are also low in calories and fat. They are a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain their weight.
Hokkigai Sushi is a healthy and delicious option for people who are looking for a light meal. It is perfect for summertime eating!
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Which Season Is Best to Enjoy Hokkigai Sushi?
Hokkigai is best eaten in the spring, but if caught in the northern ocean, some of them taste even better in the summer. Clam fishing is permitted throughout the year.
The process of preparing surf clams is a little more interesting, as it begins with submerging the clams in seawater to remove any remaining soil before proceeding to the final quality control step.
However, it can be enjoyed at any time in your sushi, but I think it is especially good on a hot day.
LEARN MORE: Is Sushi Dairy Free?
Where Are the Hokkigai Mainly Found?
The Hokkigai are mainly found in the waters off of Japan. They can also be found in parts of Russia and Korea. Some people might find them in the United States, as well.
The Arctic surf clam can be found in the waters of Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. It’s a long-lived burrowing bivalve that’s usually caught in the fall.
In North America, Hokkigai sushi is becoming more popular because of its taste and texture, which some people describe as chewy with a sweet taste.
LEARN MORE: What Is Nori Sauce?
Conclusion: What Is Hokkigai Sushi?
Had we not visited the sushi bar and tried those delicious Hokkigai sushis that day, we would never know they taste so good! There we had the cooked version of Hokkigai in sushi with some spicy and salty sauces to enhance the flavor.
Hokkigai sushis are an absolute treat to the taste buds and the body. Hokkigai Sushi is a delicious and healthy option for sushi lovers.
I would highly recommend trying it if you are looking for something new to try. Who knows, you might even like it more than the traditional sushi!
