Madai - Red Sea Bream
King of fish known as a symbol of celebration for its red color
Madai is called “the king of fish” and is well-known to the Japanese, who eat a large volume of fish. Marketable madai is usually 35–40 cm long, but a large-sized one may exceed 1 meter in length. With a longevity of 20–40 years, Madai is said to live relatively long compared to other fish.
Tai (sea bream) has long been used in celebrations in Japan to bring in good luck, which is associated with its vivid red color and beautiful shape. Its status as a celebration fish is also supported by the fact that the word Tai rhymes with the expression Medetai (happy). The habit of eating a whole Madai on various celebratory occasions in life has continued. There is a custom of serving a whole Madai that has been grilled with a pinch of salt as Iwaidai during Okuizome—the occasion celebrating the 100th day after a baby’s birth. When the Shiogamayaki, a salt-crusted tai, is served at wedding receptions, the bride and groom traditionally crack it open using a wooden hammer.