Kou-ika 甲烏賊
Cuttlefish
A clam at heart
It is said that some shellfish evolved over time and gave rise to squid. The cuttlefish has part of the cartilage on its back hardened like a shell, apparently a remnant from its clam era.
It begins with a relatively crisp texture, but as you chew a sweetness gradually comes through; a very delicious squid. By the way, cuts are scored on its surface as a measure against anisakis. Since anisakis dies when frozen, a squid with no knife marks might just be a frozen one.
Origin: Western Japan Season: Delicious all year round