Boze no Sugata Zushi
A traditional sushi heralding the arrival of autumn
Boze no Sugata Zushi introduction
Boze no Sugata Zushi (ボウゼの姿寿司) is a specialty sushi from Tokushima Prefecture. The "boze" refers to a butterfish, known in Tokushima dialect as "ibo-dai." This white-fleshed saltwater fish is mild in flavor, rich in fat, and cherished for its delicate taste. In Tokushima, it is especially popular during autumn, often paired with the region’s signature citrus fruit, sudachi. Among its variations, the most indulgent kind is Boze no Sugata Zushi, a celebratory dish made by placing an entire butterfish atop sushi rice, commonly prepared for festivals and special occasions. To create this dish, the butterfish is kept whole with its head intact, split open along its back, and lightly pickled in vinegar. Sushi rice is then stuffed inside and the fish is pressed into a traditional oshizushi (pressed sushi) style. The vinegar-softened fish can even be enjoyed whole, including the head. Tokushima’s renowned sudachi is often added as a garnish atop the sushi or incorporated into the vinegar used to pickle the butterfish and season the sushi rice, adding a fragrant, tangy citrus notes to this unique regional delicacy.
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