crucian carp caught in midwinter
Refers specifically to crucian carp (鮒) caught during the coldest part of winter, when they are considered at their best for eating. A seasonal term used in culinary and fishing contexts.
See also: フナ
Midwinter crucian carp are fatty and delicious when simmered in soy sauce.
In this region, there is a custom of eating midwinter crucian carp in miso soup.
Compound of 寒 (kan, 'cold, midwinter') and 鮒 (funa, 'crucian carp'). The reading かんぶな follows standard rendaku voicing of ふな to ぶな.