Arctic shrimp, also known as Arctic sweet shrimp or Hokkaido sweet shrimp in Japanese cuisine, derives its name from the Arctic waters and its delightful sweetness.
These shrimp are primarily harvested from the North Atlantic Ocean, specifically the waters surrounding the Arctic region. To ensure optimal freshness, they are frozen at sea.
In China and Japan, Icelandic aquatic products, particularly Arctic sweet shrimp, sourced from the North Atlantic Ocean, have gained significant popularity.
Arctic shrimp, thriving in the sea around the Arctic Circle, boasts an abundance of nutritional value. With high-quality protein and a variety of essential nutrients, it is regarded as a highly nutritious seafood option.
One of its remarkable qualities is that it resides in unpolluted waters, eliminating concerns about contamination. Furthermore, Arctic shrimp larvae do not undergo cleavage, ensuring their natural integrity.
Imported sweet shrimp, such as Arctic shrimp, may not be readily available on a daily basis. Nevertheless, they hold a special place in Japanese cuisine, often being served as the first dish in Japanese restaurants and sashimi stalls.
Compared to other shrimp varieties, Arctic shrimp is known for its superior nutritional profile, partly due to its deep-sea growth. These shrimp are completely natural, wild-caught, and promptly cooked with seawater before being packaged and frozen.
This entire process reportedly takes less than half an hour, ensuring the shrimp's utmost freshness.
Arctic shrimp is rich in nutrients, including high-quality unsaturated fatty acids and protein. Notably, it is cholesterol-free, low in fat and calories.
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Additionally, it provides ample amounts of vitamin B12, zinc, iodine, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, iron, and trace amounts of calcium, magnesium, and sodium. These attributes make it an exceptionally healthy food option for the 21st century.
Due to its tender meat and easy digestibility, Arctic shrimp is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from illness or experiencing weakness. Moreover, it contains magnesium, which plays a vital role in regulating heart activity and safeguarding the cardiovascular system.
It aids in reducing blood cholesterol levels, preventing atherosclerosis, and expanding coronary arteries, thereby assisting in the prevention of hypertension and myocardial infarction.
Researchers at Osaka University in Japan have recently discovered that astaxanthin, a compound found in shrimp, aids in combating jet lag caused by travel fatigue.
Arctic sweet shrimp with head seeds are commonly used as key ingredients in sushi, sashimi, and various other Japanese dishes. In Japanese cuisine, they are often referred to as "sweet shrimp," "Arctic shrimp," or "Hokkaido sweet shrimp."
These shrimp, when consumed raw, possess a distinct sweet flavor that enhances their appeal as a seafood delicacy. Popular preparations include sweet shrimp sushi, Arctic shrimp sashimi, and sweet shrimp sushi rolls.
In sweet shrimp sushi, fresh head-seeded Arctic sweet shrimp are typically served either raw or lightly grilled. The shrimp is thinly sliced and delicately wrapped in seaweed with sushi rice.
This combination creates a delightful symphony of textures, where the freshness and tenderness of the sweet shrimp beautifully complement the rice. Most importantly, this preparation method preserves the ingredients' flavors and retains their valuable nutrients.
Arctic shrimp, renowned for its mild sweetness and nutritional composition, holds a special place in Japanese cuisine. Its origins in the Arctic Circle and the purity of its natural habitat contribute to its exceptional qualities.
Whether enjoyed in sushi, sashimi, or other preparations, Arctic shrimp provides a delectable seafood experience while offering numerous health benefits.