Poultry
Green Pheasant
A tier
Green pheasant (Phasianus versicolor) is Japan’s native pheasant, with green-toned body plumage on cocks and meat that is lean, refined, and gently gamey. It is less common on Western menus than ringnecks but prized in Japanese seasonal cooking when available. Yakitori-style grilling of chunks, quick roasts, and clear soups suit the delicate flesh. Do not overcook. Farmed birds are milder than mountain wild ones.
Also known as: Kiji / green pheasant, Green pheasant
Track this ingredient
Unit
Characteristics
Preparations
Clear SoupFreshJapanese SeasonalQuick RoastYakitori Style
Traits
DelicateGentle GameGentle GameyJapanese NativeLeanRefinedRefined Lean MeatSeasonal Specialty
History
JP
Green pheasants were native game across the Japanese archipelago.
JP
Pheasant featured in elite and regional Japanese cuisines.
JP
The green pheasant was designated Japan’s national bird.
JP
Seasonal and specialty supply continued for traditional dishes.