Chūtoro Bluefin Tuna: Everything You Wanted to Know

If you're a sushi lover, the name might make your mouth water just hearing it. Chūtoro, the prized part of the mighty blue-fin tuna, is known for its rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture. But what makes this fish so special?

Let's dive into the world of chutoro and learn everything you ever wanted to know about this delicious treat.

What is Chūtoro?

Chūtoro is a specific cut of blue-fin tuna, also known as the medium-fatty tuna belly.  This makes chūtoro a perfect balance between the two, offering a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture without being overly fatty.

Chūtoro (中トロ), the succulent, fatty meat of the bluefin tuna, is a highly sought-after delicacy among seafood enthusiasts. This prized cut is located on the back and stomach of the fish and is only a small portion of its overall weight. It comes from the part of the fish that's between the lean akami (赤身) and the fattiest cut, otoro (大トロ). All of this combines to make chūtoro a pricey, but delicious, piece of sushi.

The most popular way to serve chūtoro is as sashimi, with the thinly sliced pieces showcasing the richness of its flavor. While some restaurants may serve it with sushi rice, others choose not to, as the tuna is flavorsome enough on its own. When looking at the meat, you'll notice its deep pink, almost red color and beautiful marbling, which indicates its fat content. Compared to akami, chūtoro has more fat, but less than otoro, which contributes to its distinct texture and taste.

Beyond sashimi, chūtoro is used in other culinary creations too, with some high-end markets and steakhouses featuring this premium product on their menu. Occasionally, chūtoro is also seared, altering its texture and flavor. Alternatively, it can be included in sushi rolls alongside pickled and raw vegetables and soy sauce, all wrapped in nori.

It's worth noting that not all restaurants serve high-quality chūtoro, and some may not even specify the type of tuna they serve. As such, it's crucial to do your research and choose a reputable establishment to ensure that you get the best quality and flavor when savoring this highly sought-after cut of bluefin tuna.

Where Does Chūtoro Come From?

Chūtoro is sourced from the bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis ), a species of tuna found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans. While blue-fin tuna can be found in various parts of the world, Japan is particularly famous for its high-quality tuna, especially from the waters around Tsukiji and Toyosu fish markets in Tokyo.

How to Enjoy Chutoro?

Chūtoro can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, with sushi and sashimi being the most popular. Sushi chefs, or itamae, often use chūtoro for nigiri, where the fish is delicately placed on a small bed of perfectly seasoned rice. It can also be served as sashimi, sliced thinly and served on its own or with a light soy sauce.

In addition to sushi and sashimi, chūtoro can be enjoyed as part of a poke bowl or even lightly seared, allowing the fat to melt and create an unforgettable culinary experience.

How to Store and Handle Chutoro?

When you receive your chūtoro, it's essential to keep it at the proper temperature to preserve its quality and flavor. Ideally, chūtoro should be stored in the refrigerator between 32°F and 40°F (0°C and 4°C) and consumed within 2-3 days. If you plan to store it for a longer period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it at -4°F (-20°C) for up to 8 months, but it's advised to consume it far sooner than that to maintain its quality. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator for optimal results.

Before preparing chūtoro, make sure to use a clean and sanitized cutting board and knife. Due to its delicate nature, a sharp, thin-bladed knife, such as a sashimi knife, is recommended for precise slicing.

Ready to Enjoy Some Chūtoro?

Now that you know all there is to know about chūtoro, it's time to indulge in this delightful treat.

At WAGYUMAN, we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality chūtoro blue-fin tuna, imported directly from Japan and delivered fresh to your door.

Savor the exquisite taste of this luxurious cut and impress your family and friends with an unforgettable sushi or sashimi experience. Head over to our product page and order your premium chūtoro today!