Masago Sushi, often known as Smelt roe, is the edible egg of the Mallotus villosus (Capelin fish) species. Outside, sushi rolls and sushi contents are often both coated with it. A pale-yellow hue is more common than the more common orange, green, or red hues seen on it.
What is Masago Sushi?
Smelt roe, often known as “masago,” is the edible egg of the Mallotus villosus (Capelin fish) species. Outside, sushi rolls and sushi contents are often both coated with it. A pale-yellow hue is more common than the more common orange, green, or red hues seen on it.
They use food colouring to turn their meal orange, green, or red while they are cooking. When it comes to sushi, Masago is one of the most sought-after ingredients on the market.
Despite their tiny size, these orange balls can elevate a primary sushi plate to a level of luxury and refinement of their own. Crunchy, salty-sweet, and a little bitter, they’re a delicious combination.
Is Masago Good for You?
The great nutritious value of Masago makes it an excellent addition to your diet. Low in calories, abundant in nutrients: this is true of other fish roe as well.
Masago has the following nutrients in a single 15-gram serving:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40.3 grams |
| Protein | 3.9 grams |
| Fat | 2.9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 0.6 grams |
| Sodium | 240 milligrams |
| Magnesium | 48 milligrams |
| Riboflavin | 0.1 milligrams |
| Pantothenic Acid | 0.6 milligrams |
| Phosphorous | 57 milligrams |
| Iron | 1.9 milligrams |
| Vitamin B12 | 3.2 micrograms |
| Selenium | 10.5 micrograms |
Masago also contains some Vitamin D, calcium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin B6 and other nutrients.
While there is a tiny amount of fat in this product, it is the kind of healthful fat found in fish and seafood products. There are several health benefits of eating fish roe, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
On the other hand, it aids in bone health, while vitamin B12 boosts energy and calms the nervous system.
Our mood and blood pressure may both benefit from the high magnesium content in Masago. This is similar to how selenium helps enhance our immune system and maintain a healthy reproductive system for women.
Pros of Masago Sushi
There are several health benefits of eating Masago, which is vital in nutritional content. Among them are:
-
A good source of high-quality protein, Masago is. Six grams of protein may be found in a 28-gram meal. Eggs that weigh roughly 50 grams have around the same protein content like this.
-
Foods like Masago might help you eat less while still getting the nutrition you need. If one eats a diet that keeps the body content, one may lose weight.
-
Masago is a good source of selenium and vitamin B-12. As a result, it is a potent antioxidant for the human body. In seafood, selenium may be found at a high concentration. That’s why oxidative stress and thyroid and immune system health may be improved by taking it.
-
Studies show that selenium-rich foods may boost the immune system and prevent mental deterioration. Vitamin B-12 may also be found in Masago, which is a good source. This vitamin has an essential function in the creation of energy and the health of nerves.
-
It is well known that omega-3 fatty acids offer several health advantages. Polyunsaturated fats are found here. As a cell membrane component, as well as a regulator of inflammation and blood coagulation.
-
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiac disorders such as coronary artery disease and heart failure, according to studies. Among the most acceptable sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fish and their byproducts, such as massage.
-
Capelin has a low mercury content since it is a tiny forage fish, unlike larger fish like mackerel and swordfish.
-
It has also been shown that fish roe, unlike other sections such as muscle and organs, has the lowest mercury content. That’s why it’s a good idea to eat masago to minimize mercury exposure.
Cons of Masago Sushi
Masago, which has a high nutritional content, has several adverse health effects.
-
Masago has a high salt concentration, among other things. For example, soy sauce and table salt have a high sodium concentration when used in large quantities.
-
If you’re suffering from high blood pressure or heart disease, cutting down on salt is essential. Additionally, excessive salt consumption has been linked to various health conditions, including stomach cancer and bone loss.
-
Some individuals may be allergic to masago since it is made from shellfish. They should not use any fish or byproducts from fisheries in their dishes.
-
A protein found in fish roe known as vitellogenin is one of the most allergenic to the human body. Fish roe is the sixth most allergenic dietary substance ever discovered.
-
Masago is also a prominent ingredient in sushi, a dish that may cause health issues if consumed in large quantities.
-
It’s also common for sushi to include farmed fish, refined carbohydrates, and dubious additives. In addition to the danger of parasite infections and foodborne diseases, sushi contains raw fish.
Summary:
Even Masago has a problem with this. All fish roe contains a lot of salt. The FDA recommends limiting salt consumption to fewer than 2300mg per day. Heart disease may be caused by a rise in blood pressure caused by excessive salt intake. Masago has a few health risks, but they shouldn’t deter you from eating it. However, ethics and sustainability must also be considered.
How to Use Masago in a Meal?
So many delicious alternatives are available to you if you decide to give this dish a try. It pairs well with a wide variety of Asian-inspired foods because of its distinct taste and texture.
Masago is often used in the following dishes:
-
Topping sushi rolls or sushirritos with Masago.
-
Adding soy sauce and wasabi to Masago sauce to make it more flavorful
-
Making a Masago, cheese, and fruit appetizer to share
-
Masago may be used in noodle recipes.
-
Masago may be used to sushi rice-based poke bowls.
-
Try it with some Sashimi or Nigiri.
When it comes to cooking with Masago, you may be as daring or imaginative as you wish. Because it has such a strong taste, you only need a tiny bit to give your dish a nice kick. Start with some of the excellent sushi dishes on the site for some culinary inspiration.
Is Masago Safe to Eat?
Yes, but it’s pretty reasonable to be concerned about eating any fish or seafood product! Some individuals are turned off by the fact that Masago is served uncooked! Raw Masago does not seem to pose any health dangers.
Fish roe, in general, is a safe bet. Only individuals who are allergic to fish and shellfish should avoid Masago. Vitellogenin is found in fish roe as well. Another egg yolk protein that may cause an allergic reaction is this one.
It is essential to know that it is a common food allergy if you’ve never had fish roe before. Even if you don’t have seafood allergies, you may be allergic to fish roe, so be careful if you’ve never tried it before and have known sensitivities!
Masago should be avoided by persons sensitive to salt or on a low-sodium diet because of its high sodium level.
How Sustainable is Masago?
It’s no secret that our planet’s population is becoming more environmentally conscious, and this awareness is spreading throughout the general public.
For many, this means avoiding items that they are aware have a significant effect on the environment. I eat primarily plant-based meals in my own life, and I encourage people to do the same.
While capelin sustainability remains a problem, Masago is a more environmentally friendly option. A year ago, WWF Canada called for an end to the capelin fishery so that the species could recover.
Capelins aren’t now endangered, but environmental groups believe they will be in the not-too-distant future. The amount of capelin captured in the recent decade has been the lowest in history. In addition, questions have been raised about capelin fishing practices.
The species’ survival is uncertain due to the high demand for female capelins to meet Masago’s needs. According to environmentalists, this technique has already affected the population of certain species, and the future is yet unknown.
Whales, seabirds, and other marine species will be affected by this uncertainty because of their role in the food chain.
However, when consumed in moderation, Masago is no more harmful to the environment than any other kind of seafood. Always look for products made by companies committed to environmental stewardship and that use environmentally friendly fishing methods.
Vegetarians and vegans may object to the use of fish roe because of the damage it does to the animals, while pescatarians don’t.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some most frequent questions about Masago Sushi:
1. Are our caviar and masago the same thing?
There are several varieties of fish roe known as masago. These two delectable delicacies are made from several kinds of fish roe (fish eggs). When it comes to “genuine caviar,” only real caviar comes from sturgeon fish. Masago, on the other hand, is not caviar.
2. Is the flavour of masago similar to caviar?
Tobiko and Masago have a similar flavour, while masago is more bitter. Masago, like caviar, is more of a side dish than the star of the show. Many restaurants utilize masago instead of Tobiko because of its similarity since masago tends to be significantly less costly.
3. Masago vs. tobiko: what’s the difference?
Although Tobiko is bigger, Masago has a more delicate flavour than it does, even though both are salty. Some cooks mix and match the two ingredients. Masago, on the other hand, enhances the tastes and textures of the dish without being overpowering.
4. Is massage a kind of fish egg?
Called capelin roe, or masago, it is the matured capelin egg. Capelin is a kind of forage fish found mainly in the Arctic, the North Pacific, and the North Atlantic Oceans. Whales, puffins, Atlantic cod, and other ocean predators rely on Capelin fish for their diet.
5. Is it possible to become ill from eating masago?
Allergy sufferers are advised to avoid masago since the product is derived from fish and shellfish. Fishery roe includes vitellogenin, a potentially allergenic protein found in fish egg yolks. Additionally, fish roe may even produce allergic responses in persons who are not sensitive to seafood.
6. Is masago a halal food?
Salmon, herring, and sturgeon all produce halal masago, which are matured eggs. Halal masago is suitable for a wide range of diets and may be used to make various delectable dishes. Halal Masago is the omega-3 fatty acids in their oil.
7. So, what’s the deal with this “masago nigiri?”
A form of traditional Japanese sushi known as nigiri sushi called Masago nigiri has been around for centuries. Smelt roe is sprinkled on top of hand-pressed sushi rice. It is customary to consume this sort of sushi by hand and in one swoop.
8. What exactly is masago poke?
The roe of the capelin fish, known as Masago, is a sort of fish egg. They are often mistaken with Tobiko, flying fish roe, because of their similarity in appearance (both are orange and crunchy). Tobiko is $1 more expensive at Poke Me than the other toppings.
9. Yes, massage is pasteurized, but is it safe to consume?
Nonetheless, like Masago, Tobiko is quite adaptable and may be used in various dishes, from egg sushi to tempura. Salt-cured eggs, which may be served fresh or pasteurized, can be eaten as a garnish or appetizer with a rusk or toast.
10. Is there such a thing as blue masago?
From the Kobe brand, a household name in the US and South America comes our high-quality capelin roe (Masago). Roe is a delicate, crisp, and savoury addition to sushi rolls and rice that provides a distinct and interesting texture and contrast. Masago may also be used to enhance the flavour of fish meals.
Conclusion
The question, “What is Masago?” has finally been answered. Several Asian-inspired meals may benefit from the inclusion of masago. Low in calories yet packed in nutrients, it is an excellent supplement to a well-balanced meal.