Basashi (Horse Sashimi)
No trip to Kumamoto is complete without tasting the famous "Basashi"!

About Basashi (Horse Sashimi)

Basashi (馬刺し) is a beloved specialty of Kumamoto, especially popular at traditional horse meat restaurants in the vibrant Kamitori shopping area. Using fresh horse meat from their own ranch, these establishments present a variety of Kumamoto's local delicacies.

Basashi refers to thinly sliced raw horse meat, typically enjoyed with accompaniments like sliced onions, grated ginger, or garlic, and paired with a sweet soy sauce. It’s a popular dish to enjoy with sake, offering a unique and delicate flavor.

The cuts of Basashi include different parts like harami (skirt), futaego (fatty belly), tataki mane (fat along the neck), and lean red meat, each offering a distinct texture and taste. Its elegant pinkish color, reminiscent of cherry blossoms, has also earned it the nickname "sakura niku" (cherry blossom meat).

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