This Kensaki squid rice bowl set is brought to you by Suzuran Annex, a fresh fish and kappo-cuisine restaurant in Hamada City in Shimane Prefecture, which is rich in seafood and was selected as a return gift under the Hamada City Furusato Nozei (hometown tax) program. Kensaki squid is characterized by its sweet and refined taste, and is a high-grade squid that can only be found in high-class restaurants and sushi bars. In this set, the Kensaki squid is matured at a low temperature, which gives it a much more delicious and sweeter flavor. The sauce is made from alcohol-free barley shochu, and is a secret recipe that was perfected through a process of many trials and errors. Marinate the squid in the sauce just before eating so that the original flavor and sweetness of the squid can be enjoyed.
The squid has light scorings (cut criss-cross pattern) to make it easier to eat for those who have difficulty of chewing or have weak teeth. Thaw the Kensaki squid naturally or under running water, thoroughly dip it in half of the shochu sauce, place it on warm rice and serve with your favorite toppings, such as sesame seeds, nori seaweed, onsen (hot spring) egg, shiso leaves or wasabi, topped with the remaining sauce. You can also enjoy Kensaki squid on its own as a side dish with sake.