Katsuo no tataki

Katsuo no tataki is a traditional dish originating from Kochi. It consists of lightly broiled, sliced bonito (skipjack tuna) that's served with ginger, garlic, and spring onions on the side. The dish is seasoned with vinegar, citrus, and either salt or soy sauce. The fish is broiled over a straw fire until the exterior becomes visibly grilled. By using this method, only the surface is cooked while the interior remains raw, and the smoke from the straw gives the meat a nice smoky flavor. Katsuo no tataki is especially popular at izakaya bars in the area. Interestingly, some claim that the dish was invented by the famous historic figure Sakamoto Ryome, an important samurai of the Bakumatsu era.