Iwashi

Sardines, iwashi, are the most commonly used fish in Japan, and they account for 25 per cent of the total catch by the sea fisheries. Along with the main species, there are a number of other varities also considered part of the same group, including ma-iwash (Japanese pilchard), urume-iwashi (big-eye sardine) and a smaller species, katakuchi-iwashi (Japanese anchovy). Ma-iwashi has a blue-green back and silvery white belly with dark dots on both sides of the body. It grows up to 25-30cm/10-12in long. Katakuchi-iwashi grows to about 15cm/6 in long, washi is best in winter but is available all year round.