Wasabi, It's Not Just For Sushi!!

What can I say about Wasabi other than "I Love It". Also known as Japanese Horseradish, Wasabi has many uses other than being a well known Sushi Condiment and if you can get your hands on fresh Wasabi lgreens you will be very surprised, what a treat. Commercially we usually see Wasabi in a paste or powder, Buyer Beware! There are several producers of the famed green powder or paste but only a very select few produce real Wasabi so read the label, many are not Wasabi at all but rather mustard and horseradish and will cost about half of real Wasabi. Fresh Wasabi is by far the best but can be difficult to find. I am fortunate and can find it at Ranch 99, Marina Market and several places in Japan Town if I want to make the trek to the city. The only markets I have found the fresh Wasabi Greens is in Japan Town in the city but well worth the ride once in a while. When working with Wasabi it is important to know it losses its flavor and spiciness after about 15 mins if left uncovered. Lets talk about the heat or spiciness of Wasabi, unlike chili's which linger on your tongue and burn Wasabi tends to hit the nasal passages hard and then almost disappear leaving the enhanced flavor of what it is being served with. Over the next couple of posts I will offer up a couple of recipes that are simple and full of that wonderful Wasabi flavor.
I shall return, until then "Think Good Thoughts and Smile".