The Power of Unagi

Do you like unagi? Sushi Hana does! At our Bothell Japanese restaurant, you can find it on either a classic nigiri sushi plate, in our unagi roll, or atop a hearty bowl of unagi donburi (unagi-don). But what is it, exactly, and what makes it so good?

The word “unagi” describes a freshwater eel from which the unagi meat is taken. This particular eel has been enjoyed throughout Japan for thousands of years, boasting a long reputation for granting high stamina to those who eat it. There is some science to this idea, as the unagi meat is rich in valuable nutrients like protein, vitamin A and vitamin E.

In Japan, unagi is frequently eaten during the hottest times. These times generally fall around mid July and early August, during the Doyo-no-ushinohi. So if the summer heat starts getting to you, try beating it the traditional Japanese way and get yourself some unagi at Sushi Hana.