Is Wasabi the Japanese Horseradish?

Wasabi is a plant native to Japan. Wasabi and horseradish are members of the Brassica family and are similar in appearance. They have similar flavor profiles that make them interchangeable in recipes. Wasabi’s popularity began increasing in the U.S. as the popularity of sushi increased. Hot and spicy wasabi peas have long been a popular snack in Japan and have now become popular snack and party table food in the United States.

Natural Wasabi Peas

Natural wasabi peas are a muted green and ivory color. They are a good choice for anyone that prefers a snack without artificial dyes. They have a quirky, somewhat mundane, and rustic appearance. However, these natural peas have a distinct spicy, zesty flavor that will wake up your tastebuds.

An Invigorating Snack

As you munch on wasabi peas, you may forget you’re eating a healthy vegetable. In addition to enjoying a uniquely flavorful snack, you’re getting a portion of the iron, protein, fiber, and vitamins your body needs. Natural or the more colorful green peas with a wasabi coating can be added to snack mixes or your homemade trail mix to liven up the mixture. Wasabi can contribute sweetness, spiciness, saltiness, and crunchiness to anything it’s added to. Wasabi peas are not just an item found in Asian snacks. They can be used in main course recipes such as Wasabi Pea-Crusted Chicken.

Asian Snacks

Asian snack foods continue to gain popularity. Most likely, there isn’t one single factor that propels their popularity. With their diverse flavors and textures, there’s a snack of Japanese origin for almost everyone to love. Asian snack mixes are available with different levels of spiciness and heat. Roasted green peas are a slightly sweet, delightfully crunchy snack kids and adults can enjoy. Natural wasabi peas are invigorating. If you don’t want a jolt of heat but still want to enjoy an Asian snack, Oriental Rice crackers are for you. You can enjoy a mix of shapes and textures with this mix.