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Ikura vs tobiko vs masago: what's the difference?

Ikura, tobiko and masago are the three fish roes you see most often at a sushi bar. They look alike from a distance, but they come from different fish and taste and feel quite different.

At a glance

  • Ikura is salmon roe. The pearls are the largest, bright orange to red, and they burst with a juicy, briny pop.
  • Tobiko is flying fish roe. The pearls are small and crunchy, and they come in orange, black, green and other colors.
  • Masago is capelin roe. The pearls are the smallest, soft and tender, and usually dyed orange.

Size and texture

Ikura is the biggest, about the size of a small pea, and its thin skin bursts and releases liquid. Tobiko is much smaller, and its distinctive crunch is the reason people use it. Masago is smaller still and soft, with little crunch.

Flavor

  • Ikura: bright, briny and a little sweet, with a rich, savory finish. The flavor varies by salmon species. See the best types of ikura.
  • Tobiko: lightly salty, with a hint of smoke and sweetness. See what is black tobiko.
  • Masago: mild and lightly salty, a quieter taste of the sea. See what is masago.

Price

Masago is usually the cheapest, tobiko is in the middle and ikura is typically the most expensive of the three, though all vary by quality and species. This is why masago is sometimes used in place of tobiko, so it is fair to ask what you are being served.

How each is used

  • Ikura: over rice bowls, as gunkan maki sushi, on blini or on a spoon
  • Tobiko: on rolls and nigiri, and as a crunchy garnish
  • Masago: in spicy mixes, sauces and as a colorful topping

And caviar?

In the United States, "caviar" on its own means sturgeon roe, which is a different product from all three. Sturgeon caviar has delicate pearls and a rich, buttery flavor, and it is served cold by the spoonful. See sturgeon caviar vs salmon roe.

A note on allergies

All three are fish roe. People with a fish allergy should ask their doctor before trying any of them, and should check labels for added ingredients. See caviar and allergies.

Opus Caviar sells Kaluga Hybrid sturgeon caviar, and it is opening soon with same-day courier delivery across the South Bay. Join the list to be first to order.