I’m thrilled to introduce you to my BBQ Grilled Pacific Saury Sanma, a cherished traditional Japanese dish straight from my grill to yours! Prepared using the traditional Japanese method of shioyaki, this dish couldn’t be easier to make! So let’s get grilling and savor the flavors of autumn with this simple yet mouthwatering delight!
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Why I Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a delightful combination of simplicity and incredible flavor! My BBQ Grilled Pacific Saury Sanma, served with daikon soy sauce and lemon, is an authentic rendition of the traditional Japanese way to prepare sanma, also known as Pacific Saury. Just like my Japanese Baked Salmon Belly, Seared Hamachi Yellowtail, and Japanese Baked Salmon recipes, the sanma is simply salted and grilled, a method known in Japanese as shioyaki!
But what sets my dish apart is the irresistible sauce made of grated daikon mixed with soy sauce and lemon juice, perfectly complementing the tender, white flakes of the fish! It’s ideal as both a side dish or a main course, making it perfect for anyone seeking a fuss-free and delicious grilled fish experience. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Pacific Saury – found frozen and whole in Japanese supermarkets or most Asian supermarkets.
- Salt – sea salt preferred.
- Soy Sauce – low-sodium Soy Sauce preferred. Can also use tamari for gluten-free.
- Daikon – also known as Japanese radish. Grated and used as a topping.
- Lemon – sliced fresh lemon.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- BBQ Grill
Directions
Step 1 Start by patting the fish off with a paper towel and making a horizontal score on the top of the fish. From there sprinkle some salt and grill or bake in the oven for 3.5 minutes per side at 350F.
Step 2 Serve with some soy sauce mixed with grated daikon and lemon.
🍽️ Serving Pro Tip
I recommend to Steer Clear of consuming the Dark Section of the fish located under the pectoral fins, as it contains the guts and imparts a bitter taste. Additionally, since Sanma is a bony fish, be prepared to Manually Remove the Bones while enjoying this dish.
Pairing Recommendations
For a complete meal, I recommend serving with traditional Japanese sides like Tofu Miso Soup and Japanese Tofu Yudofu, accompanied by a bowl of preferred rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to grill Pacific Saury Sanma if I don't have a grill?
If you don't have a grill, don't worry! You can still enjoy delicious sanma by baking it in the oven. Simply follow the same directions for seasoning and preparation, then bake the fish in the oven until cooked through.
How do I properly clean and prepare the Pacific Saury Sanma before grilling?
Traditionally, you can grill the fish whole without removing the guts. However, if you prefer, you can clean the fish by making a slit along the belly and removing all the guts before cooking.
Are there any tips for removing the bones from the fish more easily?
To remove the bones from the sanma more easily, focus on the two main bones located near the dorsal fins and the backbone. By carefully filleting the fish, you can effectively remove these bones, leaving you with 2 boneless fillets. Additionally, note that there are bones on the bottom section of the fish, near the gut area, which are typically avoided when eating.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. These leftovers are best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
Other Recipes You Might Like
- Pan Seared Japanese Style Scallops
- Japanese Grilled Squid
- Japanese Hamachi Yellowtail Collar
- Baked Teriyaki Yellowtail
Watch How To Make It
BBQ Grilled Pacific Saury Sanma
Ingredients
- 1 Whole Pacific Saury
- 1/8 tsp Sea Salt
- 2 tsp Soy Sauce
- 1/2 Inch Daikon Japanese radish - optional
- 1 Wedge Lemon optional
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- Make a light horizontal cut along the center of fish. Lightly sprinkle sea salt and repeat on the other side.
- Preheat BBQ grill to 350F and oil as needed. Once grill hits temp, reduce heat to medium-low and place Pacific Saury on the grill. Close lid and cook for 3.5 minutes. Once 3.5 minutes has passed, flip and cook for another 3.5 minutes or until the meat easily flakes off.
- Transfer fish to a serving plate and drizzle soy sauce on top of grated Japanese radish.
