Katsuo Aburi-jū is a local specialty that originated in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, an area renowned for its landings of pole-and-line-caught bonito. This generous rice dish features fresh bonito that has been marinated in two different sauces, grilled over a charcoal brazier, and served on top of rice.
The bonito is grilled at the table over a small charcoal brazier called a shichirin. Cooking it over charcoal brings out the fish’s rich flavor and creates an appealing roasted aroma. The combination of freshly caught bonito and the distinctive sauces makes this a particularly satisfying regional dish.
One of the special attractions of Katsuo Aburi-jū is that diners can enjoy bonito in three different ways. The main serving is grilled bonito placed over rice, but diners who wish to do so can also enjoy bonito sashimi and ochazuke, a Japanese dish made by pouring tea or broth over rice.
These different preparations allow visitors to appreciate the fish’s flavor and texture in several ways within a single meal. The grilled bonito offers the fragrance and savory taste created by charcoal cooking, while sashimi provides a chance to enjoy the freshness of the fish more directly. Ochazuke offers another way to savor the remaining rice and bonito.
The rice served in the traditional tiered serving box is grown in Miyazaki Prefecture. The accompanying side dishes, Japanese pickles, and soup also make use of seasonal ingredients produced locally.
Katsuo Aburi-jū brings together Nichinan’s pole-and-line bonito fishing tradition and the seasonal produce of Miyazaki. It can be enjoyed at several restaurants in Nichinan City, making it an excellent dish to seek out when exploring the area’s food culture.