Spotlight Spice: Wasabi Powder

True wasabi, sometimes called Japanese horseradish, is the rhizome and stem of a plant which belongs to the same family as horseradish and mustard. If you’re a sushi enthusiast, you’ve probably encountered either the true or “western’ version of the condiment as a green paste typically served alongside ginger on your sushi plate.

Wasabi is arguably one of Japan’s most popular condiments, and it’s great for adding a zippy heat to just about any dish. Wasabi’s heat works differently than the heat from chiles in that it stimulates the nose more than the taste buds (horseradish and mustard work in the same way). As a result, the heat from wasabi subsides more quickly than the heat that comes from capsaicin in chiles.

Outside of Japan, true wasabi can be difficult and expensive to get. At AllSpice, our Wasabi Powder, sometimes referred to as “western wasabi” is made from horseradish and mustard and is a great, economical, and shelf-stable way to add the flavor of wasabi to dishes you make at home.  

To make a paste to use as a condiment, combine our Wasabi Powder with water, soy sauce, or cream until you reach your desired consistency, then let stand for 10-15 minutes. It’s great on the side with sushi and other Japanese-inspired dishes.

You can also use the powder to add wasabi’s zippiness to all sorts of dishes. Try whipping a bit into your mashed potatoes or mayonnaise-based dips. Make a delicious snack by tossing roasted or fried peanuts, soybeans, or peas in wasabi powder mixed with sugar or salt. Add a bit to noodle dishes like ramen, soba, or udon.

Find this zippy treat in the shop or Spices section of allspiceonline.com.