What is Unajū?
Unajū is a traditional Japanese dish, especially popular as a stamina-boosting meal during the summer. It consists of grilled eel coated in a sweet and savory sauce, served over rice. While a similar dish, called “unadon,” is simply placed in a bowl, unajū is presented in a lacquered box, adding an extra touch of luxury. The sauce enhances the eel’s rich flavor, making it a perfect match with the rice. Unajū is often considered a special dish enjoyed on important occasions, symbolizing the richness of Japan’s culinary culture.
Enjoying Unajū at Traditional Restaurants
The custom of eating grilled eel, or kabayaki, became widespread during the Edo period, leading to the growth of specialized eel restaurants. The photo above shows unajū from a historic restaurant with over 200 years of tradition. Such establishments have long upheld the authentic flavors by using secret sauce recipes that have been handed down through generations. In addition to unajū, “umaki” (grilled eel wrapped in a rolled omelet) is also a delicious item often enjoyed together with unajū.
Fun Facts About Unajū
- Menu Grades: Menus often have categories such as “松 (pine), 竹 (bamboo), 梅 (plum)” or “並(regular), 上(special), and 特上(extra special).” These classifications indicate differences in the portion size of eel rather than quality, as the eel used is typically the same.
- Origin of Farmed Eel: Shizuoka Prefecture is known as the birthplace of eel farming in Japan and produces high-quality eel. It’s worth noting that less than 1% of eels in distribution are wild-caught, making them a rarity.
- Differences Between Kanto and Kansai Styles: In the Kanto (eastern) region, the eel is steamed before grilling, resulting in a fluffy texture. In contrast, in the Kansai (western) region, the eel is grilled without steaming, giving the skin a crispier texture. Each style has its unique flavor, allowing you to choose according to your preference.
Conclusion
Unajū is a dish that represents the essence of Japanese food culture. Its nutritional value, the rich flavor of the sauce, and the culinary experience it offers are captivating. If you visit a traditional restaurant, you may even enjoy unajū in a setting that showcases Japanese architectural heritage.
We recommend experiencing the tradition and culinary culture of Japan by trying unajū at least once.
