Literally translated, "namida" means drop of water, but in this case it would mean tears -- in reference to this wasabi's eye-watering heat.
Wasabi (Eutrema Japonica) is a member of the cruciferai family, originating in Japan and is related to cabbage. This perennial grows primarily in cold mountain streams in Japan. Recently, some cultivation has started in New Zealand, which is the source of this wasabi.
In the West, it is sometimes called Japanese horseradish. Its flavor is fresher, its aroma more pungent, and it is noticeably hotter than horseradish. Wasabi doesn't retain its flavor when cooked and is usually served with, or added to cold food.
To fully release its flavor, it should be added to a liquid and left for about 15 minutes. Wasabi is best stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Wasabi is essential to Japanese dishes and dipping sauces. Try it in salad dressing, cocktail sauce, mayonnaise, or marinades. Wasabi powder mixes well with butter and can be stored in the fridge for weeks. Wasabi pairs well with avocado, beef, raw fish, rice and seafood. Wasabi also combines well with ginger and soy sauce.
We owe much to the fruitful meditation of our sages, but a sane veiw of life is, after all, elaborated mainly in the kitchen.
Joseph Conrad
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