Hamachi Kama with Ponzu
Indulge in the exquisite flavor of Hamachi Kama, the prized yellowtail collar, renowned for its succulent, rich, and fatty meat. This Japanese-inspired dish features perfectly baked hamachi kama, achieving a tender, flaky texture and crispy skin, elegantly paired with a vibrant, tangy ponzu dipping sauce.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 35 min
- Serves
- 2
- Difficulty
- Easy
Allergen information: may contain fish, gluten, and soy. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
Ingredients
- 2 pcshamachi kama, about 200g each
- 0.5 tspsalt
- 0.25 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
garnish
- 0.5 pcslemon, cut into wedges
- 15 gscallion, thinly sliced
ponzu
- 2 tbspsoy sauce, gluten-free if needed
- 1 tbsplemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 0.5 tbsprice vinegar
- 0.5 tbspmirin
Equipment
Oven · Baking sheet · Parchment paper · Small mixing bowl · Whisk · Paper towels · Chef's knife · Cutting board · 2× Serving plates · Meat thermometer (optional)
The method
Step by step
- 1
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Ensuring the oven is fully preheated before adding the fish promotes even cooking and a crispier exterior.
- 2
Thoroughly pat the hamachi kama dry with paper towels on all sides to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving a crispy skin during baking.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Moisture on the surface of fish can lead to steaming instead of browning, so don't skip this step!
- 3
Season both sides of the dried hamachi kama generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Use a good quality sea salt or kosher salt for better flavor and even distribution.
- 4
Carefully place the seasoned hamachi kama onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is space between the pieces for even cooking.
- 5
Bake the hamachi kama for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque throughout, flakes easily with a fork, and the skin is golden and slightly crispy.
About 25 min
Cook’s note: The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the kama; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) for doneness.
- 6
While the fish bakes, prepare the ponzu dipping sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, fresh lemon juice, rice vinegar, and mirin in a small bowl until well combined.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Taste the ponzu and adjust the balance of sweet, sour, and savory to your preference; a dash of dashi can add extra umami.
- 7
Carefully transfer the hot, cooked hamachi kama to individual serving plates.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Use a wide spatula to avoid breaking the delicate fish as you transfer it.
- 8
Garnish each serving with fresh lemon wedges and thinly sliced scallions for a burst of freshness and color.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Slicing the scallions on a bias creates a more elegant presentation.
- 9
Serve the baked hamachi kama immediately with the prepared ponzu dipping sauce on the side for dipping.
Cook’s note: Offer small individual dipping bowls for each diner to enhance the dining experience.
Keep it good
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed white rice and a simple side of blanched asparagus or a light cucumber salad. For an elevated experience, consider a crisp, dry sake or a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. You can also add a pinch of grated ginger to the ponzu for an extra layer of flavor.
Store leftover hamachi kama and ponzu sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Reheat hamachi kama gently in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until just warmed through, to prevent drying out. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the fish rubbery.
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