Firefly squid

　The season for firefly squid has arrived.

　March to May is the peak season for firefly squid each year. Although catches were low at the start of the fishing season on 1st March, a bumper harvest is anticipated this year.

　One hundred years ago, a researcher studying fireflies named this beautifully luminous squid ‘firefly squid’ after observing it in Toyama Bay. Its scientific name, Watasenia scintillans, is derived from his name.

　In Kyoto, firefly squid from Tajima, centred around Hamasaka Fishing Port, are popular.

　As they are pre-boiled, they can be eaten as is, but firefly squid and rapeseed flowers dressed in a vinegar-miso sauce make a perfect accompaniment to drinks. Even I, who cannot drink alcohol, find them a favourite;)