What is Shichimi Togarashi?

You might recently have heard the delicious news that we have added Organic Shichimi Togarashi to our condiments range. Some of you might be wondering what exactly it is?

Shichimi is a traditional Japanese condiment which is a staple in almost every Japanese kitchen. Shichimi, or shichi 七 (seven) mi 味 (flavours) is also known by some as ‘Japanese seven spice’. Togarashi 唐辛子 is the Japanese name for Capsicum annum, or red chilli peppers, which arguably gives Shichimi one of its most celebrated flavours – spiciness.

Shichimi has a very interesting story, which takes us right back to the 17^th century.

In 1625, a Japanese merchant by the name Tokuemon ran a herbal shop on the banks of the Yagenbori Canal in the Ryogoku district of Edo (in today’s Tokyo). Red chilli pepper was still a new ingredient to Japan, believed to have been brought to the country by the Portuguese. It is believe that having discovered the unique and warming characteristics of the red chilli pepper, Tokuemon set about creating his very own blend of seven ingredients that featured red chilli, which he aptly named shichimi-togarashi (seven-flavored capsicum).

Tokuemon’s seven ingredient blend has lasted the test of time and is now more popular than ever. Whilst the seven ingredients can vary very slightly today, depending on the region or producer who makes it, the core ingredients remain the same for creating an authentic and flavourful Shichimi condiment.

Clearspring’s Organic Shichimi

We only use the finest quality organic ingredients to make our Organic Shichimi. The black and whole sesame seeds have been toasted to bring out their natural flavour and then mixed with a perfectly balanced blend of chilli flakes, black pepper, ginger powder, orange peel and nori. The powerful heat from the chilli is beautifully complemented by refreshing citrus notes and the complex umami rich flavours of sesame and nori. It is made in small batches to ensure that the taste and quality is perfect every time.

Clearspring Organic Shichimi is incredibly versatile and is perfect for adding a depth of flavour to a wide variety of dishes including noodles, tofu, salads as well as for BBQs. It can be added as an ingredient while cooking, or simply sprinkled over your finished meal as a garnish.