Fresh Wakasagi, also known as Japanese smelt, is a small freshwater fish found in lakes and rivers across Japan, prized for its delicate, sweet flavor and tender texture. In Japanese cuisine,
Wakasagi is used in a variety of dishes, often enjoyed fried as tempura, where its light and crisp batter complements the fish's subtle taste.
Additionally, chefs utilize Wakasagi in traditional preparations like sunomono (vinegared salads) and nimono (simmered dishes), where its small size and gentle flavor make it a versatile and popular ingredient, offering a distinctive taste of Japan's freshwater culinary offerings.