Many people may be interested in buying Japanese spices as souvenirs and trying unique Japanese spices in their cooking. In this article, we will introduce the flavors and uses of recommended spices that capture the essence of Japan, including Shichimi Togarashi, Sansho (Japanese pepper), Wasabi, and edible chili oil. Please consider purchasing them as souvenirs and enjoy the distinct spiciness of Japan at home.
S&B Shichimi Togarashi
Shichimi Togarashi is a unique Japanese spice blend that incorporates seven distinct ingredients. S&B Shichimi Togarashi includes red chili pepper, black sesame seeds, dried citrus peel, Sansho (Japanese pepper), hemp seeds, poppy seeds, and seaweed, providing both spiciness and a rich aroma. It is commonly sprinkled on noodle dishes, tofu, and soups, making it a staple seasoning in Japanese cuisine.
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Name: Shichimi Togarashi 15g
Manufacturer: S&B Foods Inc.
Suggested Retail Price: 142 yen (excluding tax)
S&B Ichimi Togarashi
Ichimi Togarashi is made solely from red chili peppers, distinguishing it with a stronger spiciness compared to Shichimi Togarashi. When you want to add a spicy accent to your dishes, Ichimi Togarashi is recommended. With red chili peppers as its only ingredient, it can be used as a topping for various dishes such as noodle dishes, soups, okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake), salads, and hot pot dishes.
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Name: Ichimi Togarashi 15g
Manufacturer: S&B Foods Inc.
Suggested Retail Price: 142 yen (excluding tax)
Yawataya Isogoro Shichimi Togarashi
Yawataya Isogoro’s Shichimi Togarashi, a long-established brand dating back to the Edo period, is known for its well-balanced combination of spiciness and aroma, offering a unique flavor profile. The blend includes red chili pepper, dried citrus peel, black sesame seeds, hemp seeds, perilla leaves, Japanese pepper, and ginger. The charming design of the can also makes it a perfect souvenir. A classic way to enjoy it is by sprinkling it on udon, soba, or miso soup.
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Name: Shichimi Togarashi ◎ Can 14g
Manufacturer: Yawataya Isogoro Co., Ltd.
Suggested Retail Price: 432 yen (including tax)
Yawataya Isogoro Shichimi Togarashi (with Yuzu)
For those who appreciate both spiciness and fragrance, this Shichimi Togarashi with yuzu is recommended. It contains red chili pepper, yuzu (Japanese citrus), dried citrus peel, black sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, perilla leaves, Japanese pepper, and ginger. Made with domestically sourced yuzu peel, it enhances the aroma, especially when used in noodle dishes and stir-fries.
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Name: Yuzu Shichimi ◎ Can 12g
Manufacturer: Yawataya Isogoro Co., Ltd.
Suggested Retail Price: 713 yen (including tax)
S&B Milled Sansho (Japanese Pepper)
In Japan, sansho (Japanese pepper) is often sprinkled on grilled eel (unagi) or yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). The unique spiciness of sansho, with a tingling sensation, becomes addictive once you try it. This product comes with a mill, allowing you to enjoy the freshly ground flavor at home. Simply incorporating sansho into your cooking can significantly enhance the Japanese essence. It pairs well with dishes like mapo tofu, pasta, and grilled meat.
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Name: S&B Milled Sansho (Japanese Pepper) with Grinder
Manufacturer: S&B Foods Inc.
Suggested Retail Price: 458 yen (excluding tax)
S&B 100% Pure Wasabi
This product is made using aromatic 100% pure wasabi, a type of Japanese horseradish native to Japan. The freshly grated wasabi is conveniently packaged in a tube, allowing easy application directly onto dishes. The pungent spiciness of wasabi, which stimulates the nose, complements both meat and fish dishes. While it is a classic accompaniment for sashimi, many people nowadays also enjoy dipping it in yakiniku (grilled meat).
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Name: S&B 100% Pure Wasabi
Manufacturer: S&B Foods Inc.
Suggested Retail Price: 220 yen (excluding tax)
S&B 100% Pure Yuzu Kosho
Yuzu pepper is a spice made from yuzu (Japanese citrus) and green chili peppers. It is commonly used in the Kyushu region of Japan, where “kosho” refers to green chili peppers in some parts of Kyushu. This 100% pure yuzu pepper uses domestically sourced green yuzu, offering the refreshing fragrance of yuzu and the spiciness of green chili peppers. Try using it in hot pot dishes, gyoza,yakiniku (grilled meat), and more.
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Name: S&B 100% Pure Yuzu Kosho
Manufacturer: S&B Foods Inc.
Suggested Retail Price: 220 yen (excluding tax)
Momoya Slightly Spicy Chili Oil – Spicy but Not Too Hot
Rāyu, or chili oil, is made by blending red chili peppers with aromatic vegetables and spices, commonly used as a finishing touch to drizzle over dishes. However, this chili oil is a unique variety that has developed in Japan for direct consumption. It includes hand-fried ingredients such as fried garlic and fried onions. Enjoy it on rice, tofu, pasta, ramen, and more. With its spiciness and the crispy texture of fried garlic and onions, it’s sure to make every bite irresistible.
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Name: Momoya Slightly Spicy Chili Oil – Spicy but Not Too Hot
Manufacturer: Momoya Co., Ltd.
Suggested Retail Price: 450 yen (including tax, online price)
Summary
Japanese spices such as Shichimi Togarashi, wasabi, sansho, yuzu pepper, and edible chili oil feature a unique spiciness and aroma not found in other condiments. The convenient size and price make them perfect for souvenirs. Feel free to try them in your cooking to add accents and explore new flavor variations.
