Types of sushi - Fugu (河豚 : ふぐ)

Definition

Fugu (河豚 : ふぐ) is pufferfish. Fugu has been consumed in Japan for centuries, although its historic origins are unclear. Pufferfish contains lethal amounts of the poison tetrodotoxin in the internal organs, especially the liver and ovaries, and also the skin. Therefore, only specially licensed chefs are allowed to prepare and sell fugu to the public, and the consumption of the liver and ovaries is forbidden. However, a number of people die every year from consuming improperly prepared fugu. Non-lethal quantities of the poison remain in the sushi and give a special desired tingling sensation on the tongue.

Tags

Sushi     Japanese Food