Name:

Sea Cucumber

Aposticihopus californicus

Seasonal Availability:

Reference Federal Regulations for Open & Closed Days

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Commercial Length or Size Requirements:

For species not believed to have a commercial size requirement, kindly refer to the CDFW or agency of jurisdiction website for further details.

Flavor Profile

Sea cucumber has a delicate and mild flavor with a hint of oceanic essence. Its taste can be described as subtly sweet and briny, reminiscent of the sea. The texture is unique, offering a gelatinous yet slightly crunchy bite, making it a prized delicacy in many Asian cuisines.

Our favorite ways to cook

Steamed Sea Cucumber is a delicacy to savor. Steam the cleaned sea cucumbers for about 20-30 minutes until they turn tender. The sea cucumbers absorb delicate flavors while retaining their unique texture. Serve them as an appetizer with a drizzle of sesame oil and soy sauce or incorporate them into a stir-fry with a medley of fresh vegetables.

Things you probably didn't know about Sea Cucumber

Did you know that Sea Cucumbers are not actually vegetables but marine animals belonging to the echinoderm family, related to sea stars and sea urchins? These fascinating creatures have a unique defense mechanism, which involves expelling their internal organs when threatened, with the ability to regenerate them later. Furthermore, Sea Cucumbers play a vital role in marine ecosystems, as they help recycle and purify the ocean floor by consuming decaying matter and acting as natural filter feeders.