Ever wondered why Japanese grilled unagi is a global delicacy? Beyond its rich, sweet kabayaki flavor, it holds deep cultural significance and health benefits. Dive into our guide to explore its taste, tradition, and more, embark on a journey to savor one of Japan's finest cuisines at Unatoto Singapore.
What is Unagi and what makes it a favorite among fans of Japanese cuisine?
Unagi is a type of freshwater eel that is highly regarded in Japanese cuisine, commonly grilled or baked. It features a tender texture and a sweet, savory taste, often accompanied by a variety of sauces and seasonings.
Long-standing tradition and popularity in Japan
Japanese eel carries deep cultural and culinary significance in Japan, rooted in a rich tradition and widespread popularity that has thrived for centuries. The cultural significance of Unagi, Japanese grilled eel, stretches back centuries in Japan and continues to be a cherished culinary staple among locals. Much like the delicate petals of cherry blossoms herald the arrival of spring, Unagi symbolizes the essence of summer.
This delectable delicacy is especially savored on Doyo-no-Ushi days—traditional midsummer occasions believed to fend off illnesses and combat summer fatigue. Its appeal is so profound that an entire day in July is dedicated to it, aptly named Unagi Day.
The revered status of this gastronomic treasure is deeply rooted in age-old traditions of wild eel harvesting. Among Japan’s sources, Lake Hamana in Shizuoka Prefecture stands out for producing high-quality eels prized by connoisseurs nationwide for their tender texture and sweet, delicate flavor.
Accentuated by the unique umami of kabayaki sauce, a blend of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, Unagi has become a crown jewel of Japanese cuisine. Restaurants across the country take immense pride in serving this savory dish, especially during peak seasons, transforming it from a mere food item into a cultural institution that embodies heritage, flavor, and craftsmanship.
High in omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients
Unagi is a nutritious delicacy that offers a range of health benefits. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it plays a vital role in promoting heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure levels. These healthy fats are also linked to improved brain function and a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Unagi is not only a great source of protein, which supports muscle growth and repair, but it also contains essential nutrients like vitamin A and calcium. Vitamin A contributes to maintaining healthy vision, while calcium helps in building and preserving strong bones.
Beyond its health benefits, Unagi is a flavorful dish with a sweet, flaky texture that adds to its appeal. When indulging in this culinary gem, travelers can enjoy not just a delicious meal but also a nourishing experience that supports overall well-being.
Serving and enjoying Japanese grilled unagi
Savor the flavors of Japanese grilled eel with dishes like Unagi Don, ideal pairings, and cultural traditions. In addition to Unagi Don, there are still other ways to enjoy grilled unagi that you must try.
Unagi Don
It is a popular Japanese dish featuring a bowl of steamed rice topped with grilled eel and drizzled with a savory-sweet kabayaki sauce. The tender eel combined with the flavorful sauce offers a delightful experience. Often enjoyed alone or with pickles and miso soup, Unagi Don highlights the deliciousness and versatility of grilled eel, making it a must-try for food lovers in Japan.
Must not be missed Unagi Hitsumabushi originates from Nagoya and is known for its unique way of being enjoyed. The dish is usually served in three parts. The first part involves eating the eel and rice as is, allowing you to savor the natural flavors. In the second part, you can add various condiments such as wasabi, green onions, and nori (seaweed) to enhance the flavor.The third part involves pouring a flavorful dashi broth over the eel and rice, creating a comforting and delicious soup-like dish.
Kabayaki
Kabayaki (蒲焼) is a traditional Japanese cooking method primarily used for preparing eel, particularly unagi. The eel is split, gutted, and deboned, then grilled and glazed with a sweet-savory sauce, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish often served over rice.
Unagi Tempura
Unagi tempura is a Japanese dish that features eel (unagi) coated in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy. It is often served as part of sushi rolls or as a standalone dish, highlighting the rich flavor of the eel complemented by the crunchy texture of the tempura.
Enjoy authentic grilled unagi flavors without needing to travel to Japan at Unatoto
If you're craving the rich, savory taste of authentic grilled unagi but can't hop on a plane to Japan, look no further than Unatoto, one of the best unagi restaurants in Singapore. With locations conveniently situated at Novena Square and Guoco Tower, Unatoto brings the exquisite flavors of Japanese grilled eel right to your doorstep.
Unatoto Singapore is renowned for its dedication to quality and authenticity, offering a menu that perfectly captures the traditional essence of unagi dishes. Each serving of Unatoto's grilled eel is meticulously prepared, ensuring that every bite delivers the perfect balance of smoky char and tender sweetness that unagi enthusiasts adore.
Whether you're visiting Unatoto Novena Square or stopping by Unatoto Guoco Tower, you can expect a dining experience that transports you straight to Japan with every mouthful. The commitment to using fresh ingredients and time-honored grilling techniques means you don't have to travel far to enjoy this iconic Japanese delicacy.
Indulge in the sumptuous flavors of Unatoto's grilled eel today and discover why it's quickly becoming a go-to destination for unagi lovers in Singapore. Experience authentic Japanese unagi without leaving town at Unatoto.
Contact for Reservations:
Unatoto Guoco Tower
7 Wallich St, B1 - 03 Guoco Tower Singapore
Phone: +65 6015 0591
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Unatoto Novena Square
238 Thomson Rd, 01-84 Velocity@Novena Square, Singapore
Phone: +65 6909 7519
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