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Red caviar facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Ikura temaki zushi by Adonis Chen in Taipei
Ikura (salmon roe) on a sushi roll
Ikuradon by ayustety in Tsukiji, Tokyo
Ikura don

Red caviar is a special food made from the tiny eggs of certain fish. These eggs are called roe. Red caviar comes from fish like salmon and trout. It has a bright, reddish-orange color.

Red caviar is different from black caviar. Black caviar comes from a different fish called a sturgeon.

What is Red Caviar?

Red caviar is basically the eggs of salmon and trout fish. These eggs are carefully collected and prepared to become a delicious food. People enjoy it in many parts of the world.

Where Does Red Caviar Come From?

The main fish that give us red caviar are salmon and trout. These fish belong to a family called Salmonidae. Their eggs are naturally bright orange or red. This gives red caviar its famous color.

Red Caviar Around the World

Red caviar is a popular food in many countries. It is especially loved in Russia and Japan.

Red Caviar in Japan

In Japan, red caviar is known as ikura. This name actually comes from the Russian word "ikra," which means fish eggs.

Japanese chefs often prepare ikura by marinating it. This means soaking the eggs in a special liquid. Common ingredients for this liquid include salt, soy sauce, and sake (a type of Japanese rice wine). Some families might also use dashi (a savory broth) or mirin (a sweet rice wine) to add flavor.

Ikura is often served on its own or as part of sushi dishes. A popular dish is ikuradon, which is ikura served over rice.

Red Caviar in Russia

In Russia, red caviar is a very common and special appetizer. People often eat it on a slice of buttered bread. Another popular way to enjoy it is on a blini. A blini is a thin, pancake-like food.

During special times, like Russian New Year's Eve, red caviar is a must-have. It might be served with sliced salmon and even champagne. Red caviar is also a popular gift among Russians.

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