Abalone(awabi)
Black abalone, madaka abalone, and giant abalone are tastiest from early summer to the start of autumn, while Ezo abalone peak from late autumn to early spring. Consumed raw, black and Ezo abalone have a pleasant, slightly chewy consistency and salty tang, and the distinctive flavor and sweetness of raw abalone. Madaka and giant abalone are cooked to tenderize the flesh, giving them a different aroma, flavor and sweetness to when raw. Giant madaka abalone weighing over 1kg have a mellow, slightly milky aroma and rich, gelation taste. When eaten swiftly while still living and pliable taste. When eaten swiftly while still living and pliable, rather than deliberately firmed, large, fat black abalone are an unexpectedly tasty treat.