Love it or Hate it: 6 Ways to Enjoy Wasabi, Japan’s Iconic Spice

Wasabi (わさび), the grated green condiment, is an integral part of Japanese cuisine. Its sharp, sinus-clearing heat and unique flavour can be a love-it-or-hate-it experience for many. 

Wasabi root. | Photo by photoAC

Derived from the wasabi plant—also known as Eutrema japonicum or Wasabia japonica―this spice has a history that dates back over a thousand years in Japan. Whether you’re a wasabi enthusiast or a newcomer looking to explore its culinary potential, here are six ways to enjoy wasabi in all its spicy glory.

① Grated to a paste, the classic accompaniment

Grated wasabi. | Photo by photoAC

Did you know? Fresh wasabi is grated just before consumption, and has a more nuanced, less harsh flavour than the packaged pastes. In Japan, wasabi is often grated using a special grater called an oroshigane (おろし金). Grating releases the root’s natural oils, resulting in a fresher, more aromatic paste than the packaged versions from supermarkets.

If you have the opportunity to try freshly grated wasabi, it’s worth the experience! 

Wasabi with sashimi. | Photo by photoAC

When most people think of wasabi, they envision it alongside sushi (寿司) and sashimi (刺身). The pairing of fresh fish with the sharp, clean heat of wasabi creates a balanced flavour profile that enhances the taste of both. 

For sashimi, the slice of fish is typically topped with a tiny bit of wasabi to provide a spicy kick. For nigiri sushi, the chefs will usually sandwich a thin layer of wasabi between the rice and the fish; but if not, you can also top your sushi with a bit of wasabi before dipping it into soy sauce.

② Tako Wasabi: Perfect to pair with a drink

Tako wasabi, or takowasa, is a beloved dish at izakaya. | Photo by photoAC

A well-loved wasabi-featured dish at izakaya (居酒屋 Japanese pubs) is takowasa (タコわさ), raw octopus seasoned with wasabi. The chewy texture of the octopus, goes well with the spiciness of the wasabi, and is considered to be the perfect snack to go with alcohol.

③ Wasabi ice cream: An adventurous dessert

Wasabi ice cream, an adventurous treat. | Photo by photoAC

For the truly adventurous, wasabi ice cream offers an exciting dessert experience. The combination of sweet and spicy may sound unusual, but it creates a surprisingly harmonious balance. Wasabi ice cream typically starts with a vanilla base, to which wasabi paste is added. The result is a creamy, smooth ice cream with a gentle heat that lingers on the palate.  

Wasabi ice cream is not as unusual as you think. | Photo by photoAC

This unconventional treat combines the creamy sweetness of ice cream with the pungent heat of wasabi, resulting in a unique flavour profile that surprises and delights the palate. While it might sound unusual, wasabi ice cream can be found in many specialty ice cream shops in Japan.

④ Wasabi peas: A crunchy snack

Wasabi peas. | Photo by hairyhenderson / CC BY-SA 2.0

For a snack that packs a punch, try wasabi peas (わさびグリンピース). These crunchy peas are a popular snack in Japan and have gained popularity worldwide. The peas are coated in a mixture of wasabi powder, sugar, and salt, then roasted to perfection. The result is a tantalising combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavours that make for an addictive snack. 

Combining the spicy kick of wasabi with the satisfying crunch of roasted peas, these addictive treats are perfect for munching on their own, or as a zesty addition to party mixes. The initial burst of heat quickly mellows into a pleasant flavour, making them a hit with wasabi lovers and suitable for wasabi beginners looking to get used to the flavour.

⑤ Kanpai! Cheers with wasabi cocktails and beer

Have you tried a wasabi-infused cocktail before? | Photo by photoAC

Wasabi isn’t just limited to food—it can also add a spicy twist to your favourite cocktails! A unique blend of spice and refreshment, wasabi martinis, wasabi mojitos, wasabi gin and tonics, and wasabi-infused margaritas are just a few examples of how this bold flavour can elevate ordinary drinks. 

Cheers with wasabi beer. | Photo by Carissa Loh

If you fancy a pint, how about trying wasabi-flavoured beer? The unique brew combines the hoppy bitterness of beer with the sharp heat of wasabi, creating a distinctive flavour profile. Both wasabi-infused cocktails and wasabi-flavoured beer are excellent choices for daring drinkers looking to expand their horizons!

⑥ Visit a wasabi farm

Take a trip to a wasabi farm. | Photo by Carissa Loh

To learn more about this polarising spice, how about visiting a wasabi farm? Wasabi cultivation is a fascinating process that requires pristine conditions, including pure, cold running water and shaded, rocky soil. 

Did you know? Wasabi requires very clear and clean water to grow, so it is not everywhere that you can find them. One of the most famous wasabi farms in Japan is the Daio Wasabi Farm (大王わさび農場) in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture, and its water comes from the melted snow water from the nearby Northern Alps.

Trying wasabi croquette and wasabi soba at Daio Wasabi Farm. | Photo by Carissa Loh

At wasabi farms, not only can you explore wasabi fields and learn about the growing process, you can also try wasabi-flavoured snacks like wasabi soba, wasabi croquette, wasabi ice cream, and more! 

Spice up your life with wasabi

Freshly grated wasabi. | Photo by photoAC

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of wasabi or someone looking to explore its potential, these six ways to enjoy Japan’s iconic spice offer a range of culinary experiences. From traditional pairings with sushi and sashimi to creative applications in snacks, condiments, and even desserts, wasabi’s bold flavour can be both exciting and versatile.

So, embrace the heat and discover new ways to incorporate wasabi into your culinary repertoire. Love it or hate it, wasabi is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds!

Enjoy spicy snacks with JAPAN RAIL CLUB

Wasabi isn’t the only spice that is loved (or hated) in Japan, as evidenced by the wide range of spicy and peppery snacks available in supermarkets, konbini and shops across the country. 

This July 2024, JAPAN RAIL CLUB presents “Sizzling Summer”, an Omiyage Snack Box filled with zesty and spicy snacks that pack quite a punch! Subscribe to JAPAN RAIL CLUB today to get your hands on snacks such as 明太子仙貝 (spicy pollock roe flavoured rice crackers) and 咖哩脆餅 (with a special curry mix) this July.

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