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Shichimi Togarashi

Serves about 1/2 cup Spice Mix vegan, Spice Mixes

Shichimi Togarashi

Shichimi Togarashi, a vibrant seven-spice blend, traces its origins back to the Edo period in Japan. This versatile condiment was initially crafted by herbalists in Tokyo, aiming to enhance the flavors of everyday dishes. Today, it is a beloved addition to noodles and grilled meats, adding an extra layer of complexity and heat. It's often sprinkled atop steaming bowls of ramen or yakitori, providing a spicy kick that is both traditional and modern.

The essence of Shichimi Togarashi lies in its harmonious blend of heat, citrus, and earthiness. The red chili flakes deliver a fiery punch, balanced by the zesty brightness of orange peel and the numbing warmth of sansho pepper. Black sesame seeds and hemp seeds contribute a nutty depth, while fine sea salt ties the flavors together seamlessly. This blend should tingle on your tongue, invigorating your senses with each bite, transforming even the simplest dish into a sensory delight.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbspred chili flakes
  • 1 tbspsansho pepper
  • 1 tbsporange peel — dried
  • 1 tspblack sesame
  • 1 tsphemp seeds
  • 1 tbspfine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by setting a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add 2 tbsp red chili flakes, 1 tbsp sansho pepper, 1 tsp black sesame, and 1 tsp hemp seeds to the skillet. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know the spices are ready when the sesame seeds start to pop slightly and the aroma becomes noticeably fragrant.
  2. Remove the skillet from heat and immediately transfer the toasted spices to a plate to cool. This step prevents any residual heat from over-toasting the spices, which could lead to a bitter taste.
  3. Once the spices have cooled completely, combine them with 1 tbsp orange peel and 1 tbsp fine sea salt in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Grind the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency, whether you prefer a coarse or fine blend.
  4. Transfer the ground spice blend to an airtight container. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to maintain the freshness of the spices.
  5. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve the vibrant flavors of the Shichimi Togarashi.
  6. For optimal aroma and taste, aim to use the spice blend within a few months. This ensures that the spices remain potent and enhance the flavor of your dishes effectively.
Cover of Authentic Japanese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Japanese Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Japanese Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Japanese volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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