Surimi

What Is Surimi?

Surimi is a processed seafood product made by filleting and mincing white-fleshed fish (most commonly Alaska pollock), washing it repeatedly to remove fat and blood traces, and shaping the resulting protein paste.

Its most common form is sticks colored red-orange on the outside to resemble crab leg appearance (Japanese "kani kama"). It contains no real crab meat; its taste and texture are mimicked with salt, starch, and flavor components.

Nutritional Values of Surimi

100 grams of surimi contains approximately 95 kcal of energy; it carries a moderate level of protein from the fish, and has a higher sodium and carbohydrate ratio than real crab meat due to the added starch and salt during processing. Values vary by brand and are approximate.

How Should Surimi Be Consumed?

Surimi is consumed as part of a balanced diet, in measured amounts as a processed seafood product.

This information is general; surimi is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. Those with fish allergies should avoid surimi, and those on sodium restriction should consume it in moderation.

How to Choose Surimi?

A good surimi is one with a distinctly red-orange outer surface, white interior, and fibrous-elastic texture. Products with a higher fish ratio in the ingredients list can be preferred.

• Outer surface should be red-orange, interior should be white
• Texture should be fibrous-elastic, not crumbly
• Fish ratio should be prominent in the ingredients list

How to Store Surimi?

Surimi can be stored in the refrigerator in its original packaging until the date on the package; once opened, it is recommended to be consumed within a few days in a closed container.

Using Surimi in the Kitchen

Surimi is most often used in sushi varieties like California roll, in crab salad, and on cold meze plates; it is generally consumed ready-made without cooking.

Why Is Surimi Made to Look Like Crab?

Since real crab meat is expensive and limited, it is shaped from fish meat as a more economical alternative offering a similar look and close taste; this production method was developed in Japan in the mid-20th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surimi real crab meat?

No; its main ingredient is white-fleshed fish (usually Alaska pollock), and it contains no real crab meat. Some products may have a very small amount of real crab flavoring added.

Is surimi eaten raw or cooked?

It is already cooked during the production process (it includes a steaming stage); that's why it is generally consumed directly without further cooking.

Is surimi found in Turkey?

It is becoming more common; it can be found in the frozen/chilled seafood section of large supermarkets and at places selling sushi ingredients.