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Most people think they’ve tasted wasabi before. But the truth is, in most restaurants, what you get isn’t real wasabi at all. It’s usually a mix of horseradish, mustard, and green food coloring. Real wasabi comes from a plant called Wasabia japonica, and its root (called a rhizome) is grated fresh to give food a spicy, fresh flavor.
Real wasabi is rare and special. It has a rich, spicy taste that doesn’t burn like chili peppers. Instead, it gives a quick heat that goes away fast and doesn’t cover up the flavors of your food.
But real wasabi rhizomes don’t last forever. Once you buy them, it’s important to store them the right way to keep them fresh and tasty for as long as possible. If you're wondering how to store wasabi properly, we’ve got you covered.
Why is it Important to Store Wasabi Correctly?
When you shop for fresh wasabi rhizomes, you’re getting a root that’s still alive. This means it keeps breathing and changing even after it's picked. If you don’t store it correctly, it can dry out, go soft, or lose its flavor.
At Real Wasabi, we are passionate about properly caring for our products. When you buy real wasabi root from us, we want you to enjoy it as much as possible.
Easy Tips for storing fresh wasabi rhizome after purchase
Follow these steps to keep your wasabi fresh and full of flavor:
1. Rinse and Dry Gently
As soon as your wasabi arrives, rinse it under cold water to wash off any dirt. Use your hands—no scrubbing. Then, dry it gently with a paper towel. This keeps the outside from getting damaged.
2. Wrap It Up
Take a damp (not soaking wet) paper towel and wrap it around the wasabi rhizome. This keeps the root from drying out. Then, place the wrapped wasabi inside a plastic bag or an airtight container.
3. Put It in the Right Spot in the Fridge
The best place to store fresh wasabi rhizomes is in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This part of the fridge has a good balance of cool air and moisture. Don’t put the wasabi in the coldest part of the fridge because that could freeze it and ruin the texture.
4. Keep It Clean and Moist
Every few days, unwrap the wasabi and check for any soft or dark spots. If the paper towel is dry, re-wet it slightly. If the paper towel looks dirty, replace it with a fresh one.
5. Only Grate What You Need
Once wasabi is grated, it starts to lose flavor after about 15 minutes. To get the best taste, only grate a little at a time—just what you’re going to eat.
How Long Does Wasabi Last?
If you follow the steps above, your wasabi can stay fresh for 2 to 3 weeks in the fridge. Some people say it lasts even longer if you take good care of it. The better you store it, the longer the wasabi rhizome shelf life.
Some people also try a Japanese method of wasabi rhizome preservation where they store the root in water. If you try this, make sure to change the water every day and keep it cold. But you have to be careful—too much water or bad water can cause the wasabi to rot.
Can You Freeze Wasabi?
You can freeze wasabi, but we don’t recommend it. Freezing changes the texture and makes it less flavorful. If you do freeze it, grate it first and freeze it in small amounts so you can use just a little at a time.
Why Buy From Real Wasabi?
We grow authentic wasabi ourselves and we work with a network of farmers around the world who are committed to deliver the best quality fresh wasabi rhizomes to you.
When you shop fresh wasabi rhizomes from us, you’re getting a product that’s fresh, real, and high-quality. We’re also here to help with tips on how to store wasabi after you receive it.
FAQs
Q1: How do I know if my wasabi has gone bad?
If the rhizome feels soft, smells bad, or has dark or moldy spots, it’s no longer good to use.
Q2: Can I save grated wasabi for later?
Yes, but only for a short time. Grated wasabi should be kept in a small airtight container in the fridge and used within a day.
Q3: What tool should I use to grate wasabi?
The best tool is a sharkskin grater, but you can also use a fine metal or ceramic grater. Grate in small circles to bring out the best flavor.
Q5: Is it hard to grow wasabi at home?
Yes, it takes a long time for the plant to mature, and it needs cool running water and a certain climate to grow well. That’s why it’s better to buy from experienced growers like us.
Connect With Us!!
Taking care of real wasabi is not hard if you follow a few simple steps. When you know how to store wasabi the right way, you can enjoy its fresh flavor for weeks. Whether you’re new to wasabi or a long-time fan, we’re here to help you get the most out of your experience.
If you're ready to try the real thing, check out our real wasabi root for sale and shop fresh wasabi rhizomes at Real Wasabi. We promise it’s nothing like the green stuff you’ve had before.
