If you're a sushi enthusiast, you're probably familiar with Wasabi—the green, hot condiment that adds a spicy kick to your nigiri and sashimi. However, you might be surprised to discover that in Japan, Wasabi goes far beyond sushi and is enjoyed with various non-sushi dishes, such as Soba noodles and chicken yakitori.
But what many sushi eaters in the US might need to learn is that the Wasabi they encounter at most sushi restaurants is not authentic, fresh Wasabi. Instead, it's often a mix of horseradish, food coloring, and mustard, providing spiciness but lacking genuine Wasabi flavor.
To unveil the true essence of fresh Wasabi, I've been serving it at private omakase-style sushi dinners, leaving my clients pleasantly shocked and amazed by its authentic taste.
Recently, I hosted an online talk and demonstration event in collaboration with the San Francisco Professional Food Society, where I explored the versatility of Wasabi beyond sushi. During the event, I enjoyed conversing with Jeff Roller, Co-owner of Half Moon Bay Wasabi company, who shared his favorite creative recipe using fresh Wasabi— the Wasabi Bloody Mary.
Yes, you heard it right—Wasabi Bloody Mary! This cocktail becomes a delightful and unique experience by substituting horseradish with fresh Wasabi. Grating fresh Wasabi plays a crucial role in enhancing overall enjoyment. The fantastic aroma fills the air as you grind the Wasabi, mentally preparing you for the aromatic and flavorful journey ahead.
If you've never experienced the magic of fresh Wasabi, I highly recommend trying it. Numerous Wasabi farmers in the US offer fresh Wasabi online, and you can also find it at Half Moon Bay Wasabi Company.
Buy Fresh wasabi from Half Moon Bay Wasabi Company.
Wasabi Bloody Mary
(Based on the Bloody Mary recipe from Liquor.com)
Freshly grated wasabi should be used within twenty minutes of being grated.
Here is a video showing how to grate wasabi:
Ingredients
1 lemon wedge
1 lime wedge
2 ounces vodka
4 oz. tomato juice
2 teaspoons freshly grated Wasabi
2 dashes of Tabasco sauce
2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
1 pinch ground black pepper
1 pinch smoked paprika
Garnish: lime wedge
Garnish: celery stalk
Instructions
1. Grate fresh Wasabi using a Wasabi grater (or metal grater).
2. Squeeze the lemon and lime wedges into a shaker.
3. Add vodka, tomato juice, freshly grated Wasabi, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, smoked paprika, and ice to the shaker. Gently shake the mixture.
4. Pour the delightful concoction into a glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and celery stalk.
Get ready to be pleasantly surprised as you take your first sip of the Wasabi Bloody Mary. The authentic Wasabi flavor will add a new dimension to this classic cocktail, creating an experience.
So, step away from the ordinary, and explore the extraordinary with the Fresh Wasabi Bloody Mary—perfect for your Sushi Class, Cooking Class, Sushi Catering, or Team Building Activities. Embrace the wonder of Wasabi and immerse yourself in a unique and flavorful adventure. Cheers to discovering new culinary delights!