Wasabula
Estimated Inventory, 5.5 oz : 1.00
This item was last sold on : 03/29/25
Description/Taste
Wasabi root is the long, knobby tuber of a branchless plant that produces single-stem, rounded leaves. A mature wasabi root is firm, cylindrical, brown and green-skinned and tapered. It resembles a stalk of brussel sprouts after the sprouts have been removed. The leaves and stems are edible, and the entire plant is used in both food and health applications. It should be about six inches long and two inches in diameter when harvested. Its pale, lime green flesh appears somewhat dry and emits little aroma. However, once grated it reveals a creamy, moist consistency with a fiery, mustard-like flavor and pungent fragrance. Of the two types of Wasabi, the aquatic “sawa” Wasabi has an intense flavor that lingers just a short while, leaving a slightly sweet after-taste. “Oka” Wasabi has a less intense taste and the flavor lingers a bit longer. The compounds responsible for the intense flavors found in Wasabi are the same that make it valued as a health food.
Seasons/Availability
Wasabi root is available year-round.
Current Facts
Wasabi root is a member of the cruciferous family of vegetables, the Brassicaceae, and is in fact the rhizome or root-like stem of the Wasabia japonica plant. Wasabi is most widely known in its paste form as an accoutrement to sushi, alongside pickled ginger. However, not all powdered forms of the root are true Wasabi, and many contain horseradish. “True Wasabi” is known in Japan as semi-aquatic Wasabi or “sawa" Wasabi, and is considered a rare delicacy. Field Wasabi, or "oka" Wasabi is grown in full soil and is more commonly grown around the world. Wasabi contains special compounds called isothiocyanates (ITCs) which are referred to as nutraceuticals – compounds present in foods that have health benefits above basic nutritional value. These compounds are what give Wasabi its unique spicy flavor, the aquatic-grown form contains higher ITCs than the field-grown version.
Featured Restaurants
Restaurants currently purchasing this product as an ingredient for their menu.
| Jeune Et Jolie | Carlsbad CA | 858-231-0862 |
| Addison Del Mar | Del Mar CA | 858-350-7600 |
| Le Coq | La Jolla CA | 858-427-1500 |
| Georges at the Cove | San Diego CA | 858-454-4244 |
