Yari-ika (槍烏賊 / Spear Squid)

Category: Ika (squid). Season: from winter to spring.

If served very fresh, yari-ika will still be slightly translucent. When allowed to age for about a day, it looses its translucence, turns completely white, and acquires a sweet flavor that is hard to beat. Female spear squids spawn in the spring; they are delicious when served simmered with their eggs still inside. 

After slicing the piece of squid and just prior to serving, the itamae will slice thin cuts throughout the tane (as can be seen in the photo above) in order to tenderize the flesh.