Unagi is a flavorful and versatile dish with a rich history in Japanese cuisine. There are countless ways to enjoy unagi, and it can be paired with a wide range of ingredients and dishes. For those seeking a more sustainable or budget-friendly option, there are also several unagi facts you need to know.
All you need to know about Japanese eel, or known as Unagi
Unagi, the Japanese eel, is a beloved delicacy in Japanese cuisine. Known for its rich flavor and delicate texture, unagi is often enjoyed grilled or steamed, typically served with a sweet soy-based sauce.
Unagi, the Japanese eel, is a cherished delicacy with rich flavor and delicate texture.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about unagi, including its history, preparation methods, health benefits, and how it pairs with other dishes. Whether you're a seasoned sushi lover or new to Japanese cuisine, unagi is a must-try dish that offers a unique culinary experience.
Eel is traditionally prepared by grilling and steaming
There are various ways to prepare unagi. Here are some of the most popular methods:
Grilling over coals is the most common method for cooking unagi. To grill unagi, preheat your grill to a medium heat level. Brush the eel with “tare” (a sweet and savory sauce) and then grill it for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is thoroughly cooked.
Add tare sauce (a sweet and savory sauce) to taste if necessary.Steaming is a gentle cooking method that highlights the delicate flavor of unagi. To steam, place the eel in a steamer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until fully done. You can enjoy it with tare or without experimenting to discover your preference.
Other Delights That Complement Unagi Perfectly
Grilled unagi pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes and ingredients. Here are some popular combinations to try.
Unagi rice
Unagi is commonly served with rice, which absorbs the sweet and savory sauce beautifully. One traditional presentation is unagi kabayaki, where the eel is placed over a bed of rice in a lacquer box. Alternatively, unagi can be served in a rice bowl, known as Unagi Don or Unadon for short. For a different twist, the rice can be served separately, allowing the unagi to take center stage on the plate, showcasing its rich flavor and texture.
In addition to the classic preparations, Unagi Hitsumabushi offers a unique and delightful way to enjoy unagi. This popular dish from Nagoya features grilled eel served over a bed of rice, similar to unagi don. However, what sets hitsumabushi apart is the way it’s eaten.
Traditionally, it’s served in three stages: first, enjoy it as is, with the rich eel and rice. Then, try it with condiments like wasabi, green onions, and nori for added flavor. Finally, enjoy it with a flavorful broth poured over the top, transforming the dish into a comforting soup. Hitsumabushi is a great choice for those who love variety in their meal and want to experience unagi in different ways.
Unagi sushi
Unagi is a favored ingredient in sushi, often served as nigiri, with sliced eel atop vinegared rice. It can also be featured in sushi rolls, either cut into smaller pieces or rolled into a temaki hand roll. Unagi pairs wonderfully with other ingredients like avocado, cucumber, and tobiko, adding depth and richness to the flavor profile.
Unagi skewer
An unagi skewer is a popular Japanese dish featuring grilled eel (unagi) served on a skewer. The eel is typically glazed with a sweet and savory sauce tare, which is made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. The unagi is skewered and then grilled, giving it a smoky, charred flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. This dish is often enjoyed as a street food or appetizer in Japanese restaurants, and it offers a delicious way to enjoy the rich taste of unagi in a convenient, easy-to-eat form.
Unagi as part of a set
Unagi is often a highlight in set meals at restaurants, where it pairs beautifully with other dishes like sashimi, tempura, and the classic accompaniments such as miso soup and salad. For a truly memorable experience, try pairing unagi with its liver, known as kimo. Served over rice, this combination offers a rich and complex flavor profile that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Kabayaki and Unagi: Clarifying the Differences and Connections
While unagi refers to the Japanese eel itself, kabayaki is a specific cooking method used for preparing unagi. Unagi kabayaki involves grilling the eel after it has been seasoned with a sweet and savory sauce. The eel is typically split open, cleaned, and then grilled to perfection. The kabayaki style is characterized by its glossy appearance, as the eel is coated with the tare sauce during grilling, adding both flavor and shine.
In summary, unagi is the eel, and kabayaki is the traditional grilling technique that highlights unagi's rich flavor. Kabayaki can be applied to other fish as well, but it is most commonly associated with unagi, making the two terms closely connected in Japanese cuisine.
Cost of Unagi
Unagi is considered a relatively pricey dish, primarily due to supply and demand dynamics, as well as the labor-intensive process involved in both harvesting and preparing the eel. The price of unagi can fluctuate based on factors such as the region, the quality of the eel, and the preparation method. On average, unagi tends to be more expensive than other types of fish.
Savor authentic Japanese unagi at Unatoto Singapore
Savor authentic Japanese unagi restaurant - Unatoto Singapore, where you can enjoy delicious eel rice dishes at an affordable price. Known for its charcoal-grilled eel with a crispy texture and tender meat, Unatoto offers a true taste of Japan.
With two convenient locations at Guoco Tower and Novena Square, Unatoto brings the warmth and aroma of freshly grilled unagi to Singapore. Whether you're craving a hearty lunch or dinner, Unatoto promises an unforgettable dining experience with a menu that embodies both tradition and value. Visit Unatoto for a satisfying meal that fits your budget.
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Unatoto Novena Square
238 Thomson Rd, 01-84 Velocity@Novena Square, Singapore
Phone: +65 6909 7519
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