Osaka Tessa

At a glance

NameOsaka Tessa (Tessa)
PrefectureOsaka
RegionKansai
TypePaper-thin licensed pufferfish sashimi

What is it?

Tessa arranges translucent slices of firm pufferfish in a wide circular or decorative pattern and serves them with ponzu, scallion and momiji-oroshi. The thin cut makes the resilient flesh pleasant to chew.

History and local context

In Kansai, fugu was nicknamed teppo, a gun, through a wordplay on the potentially fatal consequence of being 'hit'; teppo-sashi shortened to tessa. Chrysanthemum, crane and peacock arrangements display a chef's knife skill.

How to enjoy it

Lift several slices with scallion if desired and dip lightly so ponzu does not mask the fish. Eat only at licensed establishments or buy product prepared by authorized specialists; never clean or slice an unprocessed pufferfish yourself.

Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Osaka Tessa from?

It is associated with Osaka, in the Kansai region of Japan.

What kind of food is Osaka Tessa?

This guide classifies it as paper-thin licensed pufferfish sashimi. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.

Can I order Osaka Tessa 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.

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