Kuruma ebi - Kuruma-prawn Wild
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クルマエビ

Kuruma ebi

Kuruma-Prawn
Okinawa, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Japan Live Seafood Wild
Size Range
20g-50g
Availability
Daily / Year-round
Forms Available
Live, Whole
Shipping
Live (Air Freight)
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The Crown Jewel of Japanese Prawns

Kuruma Ebi (Japanese Tiger Prawn) is the crown jewel of Japanese prawns — the historical gold standard against which all other prawns are measured. Its Japanese name derives from 'kuruma' (wheel), referring to the way its striped body curls into a wheel shape when cooked. In Edomae sushi tradition, Kuruma Ebi is one of the essential, non-negotiable toppings.

The characteristic beauty of Kuruma Ebi is matched by its extraordinary flavor — firm, deeply sweet flesh with a subtle nuttiness that no other prawn quite achieves. The shell, when cooked, turns brilliant crimson with white banding. Live Kuruma Ebi commands the highest prices at auction; frozen product from reputable producers maintains excellent quality.

Advance Intertrade sources Kuruma Ebi from Kyushu (Kumamoto is famous for aquaculture-raised Kuruma Ebi) and Nagasaki's wild fisheries. Available live for the most premium venues, and IQF-frozen for restaurants that need consistent supply.

How It's Served

  • 🍣

    Sushi (Nigiri)

    The definitive Edomae preparation — briefly boiled with head off, butterflied, and served on rice. A masterpiece of technique.

  • 🍳

    Tempura

    The most classic prawn tempura — the striped shell removed except for the tail, dipped in light batter, fried until crisp.

  • 🍣

    Odori-gui (Live)

    Peeled and served live and moving — the ultimate expression of freshness. A dramatic sushi bar experience.

  • 🔥

    Onigara-yaki (Grilled Whole)

    Grilled whole with shell on — the caramelized shell and sweet flesh together deliver intense concentrated flavor.

Export & Sourcing Details

HS Code
0306.17 (Fresh) / 0306.17 (Frozen)
Seasonality
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Wild peaks autumn to winter. Farmed year-round.
Size Grading
SizeGradeCommon Use
20–30gSmallSushi portions
30–50gMediumSushi, tempura — most popular
50–80gLargePremium tempura, sashimi
80g+JumboShow-stopper presentations, luxury venues
Available Forms
Live · Fresh whole · Frozen whole (IQF) · Peeled tails · Head-off frozen
Packing & Cold Chain
Live: sawdust pack (traditional method — Kuruma Ebi survives out of water in moist sawdust). Fresh/Frozen: EPS box, vacuum-sealed.
Sourcing Region
Kumamoto (aquaculture), Nagasaki (wild), Kyushu — Kumamoto's farms produce Japan's most famous branded Kuruma Ebi.
Minimum Order
From 1 box (approx. 1–2 kg). Live specimens by pre-order with strict lead time.
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