How to Open a Sea Urchin and Extract Fresh Uni

by Oleg Nikitenko July 29, 2025

How to Open a Sea Urchin and Extract Fresh Uni (Step-by-Step)

If you've purchased a fresh sea urchin and you're ready to enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of uni (sea urchin roe), the process of opening it is simpler than you might think.

What You'll Need:

  • Kitchen or seafood scissors

  • A spoon

  • A bowl for collecting the uni

  • Gloves (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Position the Sea Urchin
Place the sea urchin mouth side down on a flat surface or over a bowl. The pointed spines should face up.

Step 2: Cut Around the Top
Using sharp kitchen scissors, carefully cut a circular opening around the top of the sea urchin. This should be the flat side opposite the mouth. Cut slowly and with control to avoid breaking the shell too roughly.

Step 3: Lift the Top Off
Gently remove the top shell and discard. You’ll now see the internal structure, including five bright orange or yellow strips – these are the uni .

Step 4: Rinse (Optional)
Some people like to rinse the inside of the urchin lightly with cold saltwater to clean off any debris or black substance. Be careful not to damage the roe.

Step 5: Scoop Out the Uni
Use a spoon to carefully scoop out each strip of uni . Place it gently into a bowl. Try to keep the roe intact for the best presentation.

Step 6: Serve or Store
Uni is best eaten fresh and can be served on sushi rice, toast, pasta, or straight from the shell.

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