【Reading】もんごういか

【English Name】Cuttlefish

The name "mongo-ika" (literally "crest-armor squid") has become established as a market distribution term referring to large cuttlefish of the order Sepiida. Its etymology lies in the round crest-like pattern appearing on the back, and it originally derived from a local name for the kobushime (broadclub cuttlefish).

In today's distribution market, what is collectively handled under the common name "mongo" is a general term for large cuttlefish imported from overseas, such as the European common cuttlefish brought in from the coasts of Europe and Africa, and the pharaoh cuttlefish native to Southeast Asia. Tracing the historical background, in 1959 Japanese fishing vessels discovered prime fishing grounds for the European common cuttlefish, and in 1967 set a landing record of about 30,000 tons per year. Furthermore, around 1969, pharaoh cuttlefish fishing began in earnest in the Gulf of Aden in the Arabian Sea.

What earns it appreciation as a sushi topping is its thick, soft bite and the rich sweetness that spreads through the mouth. It is a versatile and easy-to-use ingredient that readily accommodates a wide range of cooking methods such as sashimi, tempura, and simmering.

According to Toyosu Market statistics (average values for 2015-2019), the peak of handling volume is in May at about 3,500 kg, and the low is in August at about 500 kg. In terms of price, in August when supply thins, the wholesale price jumps to around 1,400-1,600 yen/kg, while in peak-season May it settles around 900-1,000 yen/kg.