Wakasa Saba Narezushi: Twice-Fermented Mackerel

Saba narezushi in Wakasa and Obama commonly begins with mackerel heshiko, desalted and packed with cooked rice and rice koji for further fermentation. It is not quick vinegared mackerel...

Wakasa Saba Narezushi: Twice-Fermented Mackerel
Illustration showing the defining features of the food.

At a glance

NameWakasa Saba Narezushi: Twice-Fermented Mackerel (Saba Narezushi)
PrefectureFukui
RegionChubu
TypeDesalted heshiko packed with rice and koji and fermented again

What is it?

Saba narezushi in Wakasa and Obama commonly begins with mackerel heshiko, desalted and packed with cooked rice and rice koji for further fermentation.

It is not quick vinegared mackerel sushi; salt, koji, fermentation and whether rice is eaten vary by maker.

History and local context

Obama records the two-stage bran then koji process, and Fukui describes it for New Year and festivals, eaten with rice attached or lightly grilled.

Choose a hygienically controlled producer, refrigerate as labeled and do not improvise long fish fermentation.

How to enjoy it

Slice thinly and follow the maker on attached rice, bones, grilling and storage, serving only a small salty portion.

Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.

Sources and further reading

Frequently asked questions

Where is Wakasa Saba Narezushi: Twice-Fermented Mackerel from?

It is associated with Fukui, in the Chubu region of Japan.

What kind of food is Wakasa Saba Narezushi: Twice-Fermented Mackerel?

This guide classifies it as desalted heshiko packed with rice and koji and fermented again. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.

Can I order Wakasa Saba Narezushi: Twice-Fermented Mackerel online?

Use the Rakuten Japan search link on this page. Confirm the maker, ingredients, storage requirements, and international shipping before ordering.

Order from Japan

Search Rakuten Japan using the original Japanese food name. Search results and product pages may be available only in Japanese.

This section contains an advertising affiliate link to Rakuten Japan.