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Emika
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What is Shichimi(七味)? Discover Japan’s Healthy & Epic Spice Blend
Emika
Spices are common in cuisines around the world, but what about in Japan?
There are plenty! One of the most popular spice seasonings is “Shichimi (七味)”. Let’s have a look at this article!
Contents
What is Shichimi?
Shichimi (七味), or shichimi togatashi (七味唐辛子), is a traditional 7-flavor spice mix from Japan. Shichi (七) stands for “seven,” and mi (味) stands for “flavor.”
This condiment was invented in the Edo period as a multi-herbal medicine, meaning each ingredient has its own health-promoting quality.
7 ingredients in shichimi
Although it slightly varies depending on the brand and region, here are the common 7 different spices in shichimi:
- Chili pepper (唐辛子), ground (the base spice)
- Sesame seeds (胡麻), black and/or white
- Ginger (生姜), grounded
- Sansho (山椒, Japanese pepper)
- Chimpi (陳皮, dried orange peel)
- Shiso (紫蘇, Japanese perilla)
- Hemp seeds (麻の実)
Some shichimi variations can include Aonori (青のり, seaweed) or poppy seeds in place of any of them above.
For more about each ingredient, take a look at this page by a traditional shichimi company in Japan.
Health Benefits of Shichimi
For your body
As traditionally used as a herbal medicine, shichimi is expected to optimize your health with the following qualities.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals (i.e., calcium)
- Anti-inflammatory
- Improves digestion
- Encourages blood circulation
- Together, shichimi helps boost your metabolism and immune system
For your heart
- Delicious!
- The perfect balance of 7 unique flavors
- Versatile in use
- Gives you more joy in your mealtime!
Who Is Shichimi For?
Shichimi would be for you if you…
- like hot and spicy tastes
- want to promote health with condiments
- love Japanese food
- are looking for a way to spice up your meals
How to Use Shichimi
Shichimi is such a multi-purpose condiment! Since it has strong flavors, just a teaspoon per serving is usually enough.
For example, you can sprinkle on everyday miso soup…
…, on just-served noodles like udon (or soba /ramen )…
…, on creamy simmered veggies such as daikon radish…
…, and on crispy baked onigiri!
Our Recipe (s) Using Shichimi
Related
Tofummus: Creative Japanese Vegan Hummus with Tofu
More coming on the way!
Which Shichimi is the Best?
The shichimi brand of my recommendation is Yawataya Isogoro (八幡屋磯五郎). ost authentic and well-known, with a history of over
Actually, this brand is from my hometown Nagano prefecture!
I’ve tried different kinds of shichimi, and I’m confident to say this brand is by far the best.
I normally use the classic red one (on the right side in the picture), and in winter I often use the yellow one with dried yuzu, a Japanese winter citrus fruit (on the left side in the picture).
The product design is pretty cute, isn’t it?
In addition, this brand is trying to use local ingredients as much as possible, which I really love.
Where to Buy the Perfect Shichimi
Good news! Yawayaua Isogoro’s shichimi is also available online for overseas shipping.
Check out the online Japanese store “Japan Centre” below!
Yawataya Isogoro’s shichimi is popular and dominant at many Japanese supermarkets, as you can see above. (By the way, this photo was taken at Tsuruya, the top supermarket chain in Nagano. If you have an opportunity to visit Nagano, it’s a hidden gem for local Japanese food!)
About Me
A plant-based food lover, born and raised in Japan. Currently based in Tokyo — and sometimes, in the Netherlands. I explore the connection between food, culture, and ordinary life through simple recipes and warm cross-cultural stories. I mainly write in English and Dutch.
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