What is Wasabi?

Wasabi, or Japanese horseradish, is a green condiment popularly served alongside sushi dishes. Its spicy-hot flavor is unmistakable, and it has been enjoyed by diners for centuries. Wasabi is actually a member of the Brassicaceae family, a group that includes mustard, cabbage, and horseradish. Wasabi has been a popular condiment in Japan since the 18th century, and while it is most popularly used as a sushi accompaniment, it can be used in a number of other dishes both to provide flavor and as a garnish.

Wasabi’s Health Benefits

In addition to its delicious flavor, wasabi has many health benefits. Wasabi contains an abundance of phytonutrients, the naturally occurring compounds that account for the bright green color of the root and its characteristic kick. Wasabi’s phytonutrients have strong antioxidant action, giving it the ability to neutralize toxins and free radicals that cause cellular damage in the body. Furthermore, wasabi also has antimicrobial effects, making it useful for keeping food safe. And because wasabi has anti-inflammatory properties, it can help soothe sore throat, gastrointestinal ailments, and more.

Making Wasabi

Although wasabi can be quite expensive in some parts of the world, it can be grown at home in cooler climates. Wasabi reportedly takes a few years to mature, so patience is key to cultivating this plant from seed. Wasabi is best harvested in the spring but can be grown year-round. Wasabi seeds and rhizomes are typically available for purchase at nurseries and online. Once harvested and dried, the rhizomes can be ground into a paste, or if grated fresh, into a fine powder. Wasabi is quite perishable and will not keep for more than a month or so.

In conclusion, wasabi is a delicious and versatile condiment that can both provide flavor and aid with certain health issues. While it is often pricey to purchase pre-made wasabi paste, it can be grown at home with patience and with the right starter materials. Whether you’re enjoying wasabi with your next sushi dish or are looking to take advantage of its health benefits, the characteristically pungent taste of wasabi is sure to make your next meal a memorable one.