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Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek

Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis

Clinical Encyclopedia

Smoked sea urchin cheek is a delicacy known for its rich, briny flavor and creamy texture, often enjoyed in gourmet dishes. It is a source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients.

Also known as:
Uni (Japan)Erizo (Spain)
Scientific NameStrongylocentrotus droebachiensis
Region of OriginNorth Atlantic Ocean

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories150 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total27.0g
Protein
20g(74%)
Fats
5g(19%)
Carbohydrates
2g(7%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A500 IU (10%)
Vitamin C2 mg (2%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Zinc1.5 mg (10%)
Iron2 mg (11%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
High in protein, making it an excellent choice for muscle repair and growth.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A and zinc, which are important for immune function.
Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to shellfish.
!High sodium content may be a concern for those with hypertension.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed raw or lightly cooked to preserve its delicate flavor. Pair with citrus or light sauces to enhance taste.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose sea urchins that are heavy for their size and have a fresh ocean smell. Avoid any that have a strong fishy odor.

How to Store

Keep smoked sea urchin cheek refrigerated and consume within 3-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

Myths vs Realities

MythSea urchins are poisonous.
RealityWhile some sea urchins can be toxic, smoked sea urchin cheek from reputable sources is safe to eat.
MythAll seafood is high in mercury.
RealitySmoked sea urchin cheek is generally low in mercury compared to larger fish.
MythYou can't eat sea urchin if you're allergic to shellfish.
RealitySome individuals may be allergic to sea urchins specifically, but not all shellfish allergies are the same.

Healthy Recipes

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek Sushi Rolls

Delicate sushi rolls filled with smoked sea urchin cheek, avocado, and cucumber, offering a fresh and nutritious bite.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup sushi rice
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 4 sheets nori
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 small cucumber, julienned
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook it with water in a rice cooker.
  2. 2. Once cooked, let the rice cool slightly and place a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat.
  3. 3. Spread a thin layer of rice on the nori, leaving a 1-inch border, then add smoked sea urchin cheek, avocado, and cucumber before rolling tightly. Slice and serve with soy sauce.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek Salad

A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, smoked sea urchin cheek, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, orange segments, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, toss gently, and top with smoked sea urchin cheek before serving.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious quinoa bowl topped with smoked sea urchin cheek, roasted vegetables, and a tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 1 cup assorted roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Prepare quinoa according to package instructions and roast your choice of vegetables until golden.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, and salt to create the dressing.
  3. 3. In a bowl, layer quinoa, roasted vegetables, and top with smoked sea urchin cheek, then drizzle with tahini dressing.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek and Avocado Toast

A simple yet elegant avocado toast topped with smoked sea urchin cheek for a gourmet breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. Mash the avocado in a bowl, adding lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toast and top with smoked sea urchin cheek before serving.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek Pasta

A light pasta dish featuring smoked sea urchin cheek, garlic, and a hint of chili for a flavorful kick.

Ingredients
  • 200g whole grain spaghetti
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. 2. In a pan, heat olive oil, add garlic and red chili flakes, and sauté until fragrant.
  3. 3. Add the cooked spaghetti and smoked sea urchin cheek, toss to combine, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek Tacos

Flavorful tacos filled with smoked sea urchin cheek, fresh salsa, and avocado for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet until pliable.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes and cilantro to create a fresh salsa.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by layering smoked sea urchin cheek, salsa, and diced avocado, then serve with lime wedges.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek Omelette

A protein-packed omelette filled with smoked sea urchin cheek, spinach, and feta cheese for a nutritious breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 3 large eggs
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 50g feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet, add spinach and cook until wilted, then pour in the eggs.
  3. 3. Once the edges set, add smoked sea urchin cheek and feta, fold the omelette, and cook until fully set before serving.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek Crostini

Crispy crostini topped with smoked sea urchin cheek, cream cheese, and chives for an elegant appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 French baguette, sliced
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 100g cream cheese
  • Chives for garnish
  • Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
  2. 2. Drizzle with olive oil and toast in the oven until golden brown.
  3. 3. Spread cream cheese on each crostini, top with smoked sea urchin cheek, and garnish with chopped chives.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A low-carb bowl featuring cauliflower rice, smoked sea urchin cheek, and a medley of colorful vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 cup green peas
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté cauliflower rice in a pan until tender, then add diced bell peppers and green peas, cooking until heated through.
  2. 2. Stir in soy sauce and mix well.
  3. 3. Serve in a bowl topped with smoked sea urchin cheek and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Smoked Sea Urchin Cheek Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of quinoa, smoked sea urchin cheek, and spices for a hearty meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 100g smoked sea urchin cheek
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange halved peppers in a baking dish.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, smoked sea urchin cheek, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into the peppers and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is smoked sea urchin cheek?

Smoked sea urchin cheek refers to the edible part of the sea urchin that has been smoked to enhance its flavor.

How is smoked sea urchin cheek prepared?

It is typically prepared by removing the cheek from the sea urchin and then smoking it over wood chips to impart a rich flavor.

Is smoked sea urchin cheek healthy?

Yes, it is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious seafood option.

Can I eat smoked sea urchin cheek raw?

Yes, it can be eaten raw, but ensure it is sourced from a reputable supplier.

What dishes can I make with smoked sea urchin cheek?

It can be used in sushi, pasta dishes, or served as a topping for crackers.

How should I store smoked sea urchin cheek?

Store it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few days for optimal freshness.

Is smoked sea urchin cheek sustainable?

Sustainability depends on the sourcing; look for products certified by sustainable fisheries.

What is the flavor profile of smoked sea urchin cheek?

It has a rich, briny flavor with a creamy texture, often described as umami.