Sawara - Japanese Spanish mackerel Wild
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Sawara

Japanese Spanish Mackerel
Fukuoka, Japan Wild Fish Wild
Size Range
2kg–7kg
Availability
Daily / Year-round
Forms Available
Whole, Fillet
Shipping
Fresh (Air) / Frozen
Request Pricing

A Rich, Silver-Skinned Fish

Sawara (Japanese Spanish Mackerel) belongs to the mackerel family — silver-skinned pelagic fish that swim in large schools and develop rich, oil-marbled flesh as they mature. Japanese mackerel culture ranges from humble breakfast fish to elevated shime-saba (vinegar-cured sushi) to the extraordinarily premium Seki-Saba branded product.

When the fat content peaks in autumn and winter, quality Sawara develops a richness that rivals far more expensive species. The distinctive dark blue-green striped skin makes for beautiful presentations, and modern preparation techniques allow raw consumption that was traditionally impossible with mackerel due to parasites.

Advance Intertrade sources Sawara from Fukuoka, prioritizing specimens caught by methods that minimize physical damage. Both fresh and frozen forms are available for export.

How It's Served

  • 🍣

    Sashimi & Sushi

    Sliced thin to showcase the clean, subtly sweet flesh — the definitive way to appreciate quality Japanese fish. Paired with wasabi and soy, or dressed with citrus salt.

  • 🔥

    Shioyaki (Salt-Grilled)

    The most beloved home preparation — simply salted and grilled until the skin crisps and the flesh remains moist. The purity of the fish shines through.

  • 🍲

    Nitsuke (Simmered)

    Simmered in sweet soy-mirin broth with ginger — a classic Japanese preparation that gently coaxes maximum umami from the fish while keeping the flesh tender.

  • 🫕

    Nabe (Hot Pot)

    A prized ingredient in winter nabe — the head and bones create a rich broth, while the flesh remains tender and sweet in the simmering dashi.

Export & Sourcing Details

HS Code
0302.89 (Fresh) / 0303.89 (Frozen)
Seasonality
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Winter "kan-zawara" from western Japan peaks Oct–Feb.
Size Grading
SizeGradeCommon Use
2–3.5kgSmallFillet, casual dining
3.5–5.5kgMediumSashimi, sushi — most popular
5.5–7kgLargePremium sashimi, restaurant use
7kg+JumboWhole-fish presentation, high-end venues
Available Forms
Whole, Fillet
Packing & Cold Chain
EPS (styrofoam) box with gel ice for fresh product. Individual wrapping for premium sizes. Vacuum-sealed for frozen at −40°C blast freeze.
Sourcing Region
Line-caught from waters off Fukuoka, Japan. Daily auction sourcing ensures pristine freshness.
Minimum Order
From 1 box (approx. 3–5 kg). Bulk orders welcome for regular customers. Contact us for current pricing.
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