FEATURED CROP:

REAL ORGANIC WASABI

I T ’ S   A L L C E R T I F I E D O R G A N I C

We’re a 100% certified ecological farm. This is a principle that’s engrained not just in our work, but in our family too. We trust nature and that nature knows best.

S u p e r - f r e s h

Keeping your wasabi fresh is easy! Cap the end after using to keep the power of the root alive and full of maximum flavors.

A N C I E N T J A P A N E S E
T E C H N I Q U E S

Wasabi takes over a year to grow. Not a drop of chemical fertilizer is used as we combine traditional Japanese mountain creekside and modern nutrient-rich farming methods.

R E G E N E R A T I V E    F A R M I N G

David Blume has been farming regeneratively (way beyond organic!) for over forty years. Whiskey Hill Farms features "living soils" that grow delicious and nutritious fruits & vegetables.

Real Wasabi vs. Fake: Whiskey Hill Farms' Review of Wasabi Quality, Health Benefits, & Top Recipes

Key Takeaways

• Real wasabi roots and leaves offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
  

• Fake wasabi, commonly served in restaurants, is made from a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and food coloring, and lacks the health benefits of real wasabi.
  

• Incorporating real wasabi into your diet can be both nutritious and delicious, and we have provided five healthy wasabi root and leaf recipes to get you started.
  
  

Real vs Fake Wasabi: An Overview

When it comes to wasabi, there are two types: real and fake. Real wasabi is made from the Wasabia japonica or Eutrema japonicum plant, while fake wasabi is made from European horseradish, often with green food coloring added.

Fake wasabi is cheaper and has a much longer shelf life than real wasabi, which is why it is commonly used in most food pairings, especially sushi. However, real wasabi has many health benefits that fake wasabi cannot provide.

Real wasabi has bioactive compounds that may interfere with various pathways involved in regulating inflammation. By inhibiting these pathways, wasabi is believed to suppress the production of inflammatory molecules and simultaneously activate immune cells to release anti-inflammatory agents. This makes real wasabi a great addition to any anti-inflammatory diet.

In addition, real wasabi is known to help fight food-borne bacteria, aid digestion, and improve gut health. It is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutrient-dense food.

When it comes to taste, real wasabi has a more subtle and complex flavor profile compared to fake wasabi. It has a sweet, grassy, and slightly spicy taste that is not overwhelming to the palate. Fake wasabi, on the other hand, has a sharp and pungent taste that can be overpowering.

Overall, while fake wasabi may be more convenient and cost-effective, real wasabi provides numerous health benefits and a unique flavor profile that cannot be replicated.

The Flavor Profile of Real Wasabi

Real wasabi has a unique and complex flavor that is vastly different from the fake wasabi commonly served with sushi. It has a bright, fresh, and herbaceous taste with a subtle sweetness that is not overpowering. The flavor is often described as a combination of spicy, earthy, and slightly bitter, with a cooling sensation that lingers on the tongue.

One of the reasons why real wasabi has such a distinct flavor is because it contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including isothiocyanates, myrosinase, and sinigrin. These compounds are responsible for the pungent and spicy flavor of real wasabi, as well as its many health benefits.

Real wasabi also has a unique texture that is different from fake wasabi. When grated, real wasabi forms a smooth and creamy paste that is slightly grainy, with a texture that is similar to that of avocado. The texture is an important factor in the overall flavor profile of real wasabi, as it helps to enhance the taste and aroma of the other ingredients in a dish.

Overall, real wasabi is a delicious and healthy condiment that adds a unique flavor and texture to a variety of dishes. Whether you are using it to spice up your sushi, or as a flavorful addition to your favorite recipes, real wasabi is a versatile ingredient that is sure to impress.

Health Benefits of Authentic Wasabi

When it comes to the health benefits of wasabi, it's important to distinguish between authentic wasabi and the fake wasabi that is commonly served with sushi. Authentic wasabi is made from the rhizome of the Wasabia japonica plant, while the fake wasabi is usually made from a blend of horseradish, mustard, and food coloring.

Here are some of the health benefits of authentic wasabi:

• Antibacterial effects: Wasabi contains isothiocyanates (ITCs), which are responsible for most of its health benefits, including its antibacterial effects. A study published in the Journal of Food Science found that wasabi can inhibit the growth of several types of bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
  
  

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Wasabi has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that wasabi can inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines in the body.
  
  

• Digestive benefits: Wasabi has been traditionally used in Japan as a digestive aid, and modern research has confirmed its effectiveness. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology found that wasabi can improve digestive function and reduce the risk of constipation.
  
  

• Weight loss: Wasabi is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a weight loss diet. A 100-gram serving of wasabi contains only 109 calories and 3.3 grams of fiber.
  
  

• Rich in nutrients: Wasabi is a good source of several important nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and calcium. A 100-gram serving of wasabi contains 41 milligrams of vitamin C, 558 milligrams of potassium, and 32 milligrams of calcium.
  
  

Overall, authentic wasabi is a healthy and nutritious food that can provide a range of health benefits. By incorporating it into your diet, you can enjoy its unique flavor and reap the rewards of its many health-promoting properties.

Now, let's take a look at some delicious and healthy wasabi root and leaf recipes that you can try at home.

Medical Advantages of Real Wasabi Roots and Leaves

We all know that wasabi is a popular condiment that is often served with sushi. However, did you know that real wasabi roots and leaves can offer numerous health benefits? In fact, a comprehensive study has shown that real wasabi has more health benefits than the fake wasabi served in most food pairings.

One of the main health benefits of real wasabi is its antibacterial effects. Isothiocyanates (ITCs) are the main class of active compounds in wasabi and responsible for most of the vegetable's health benefits, including its antibacterial effects. These compounds have been found to be effective against various bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Real wasabi is also rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against free radicals that can cause cell damage. These antioxidants have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

In addition, real wasabi has been found to be effective in reducing the risk of blood clots. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that the active compounds in wasabi can help to prevent platelet aggregation, which is a key factor in the formation of blood clots.

Real wasabi also contains high levels of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin C also helps to promote healthy skin, bones, and teeth.

Overall, real wasabi roots and leaves offer numerous health benefits that are not found in the fake wasabi served in most food pairings. Incorporating real wasabi into your diet can help to boost your immune system, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote overall health and wellness.

The following benefits of Wasabi help the human body in so many ways, all scientifically proven:

• Anti-cancer: Wasabi contains isothiocyanates (ITCs) that inhibit the growth of cancerous cells but do not harm healthy cells. Nakamura et al. (2001) found that the isothiocyanates from Wasabi inhibit the growth of leukemia cells but do not inhibit normal cells. Fuke and her co-workers (1997, 2000, 2006) and Manesh and Kuttan (2003) have shown that 6-MSITC from Wasabi suppressed dissemination or metastasis of tumor cells.
  
  

• Reduces obesity and blood pressure: Wasabi extract has previously demonstrated anti-obesogenic effects in high-fat diet-fed mice and antiplatelet, antibacterial, antimutagenic. (Maina et al., 2020)
  
  

• Prevents colitis: Wasabia japonica is a potential functional food to prevent colitis via inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. (Kang et al., 2019)
  
  

• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects: 6-Methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC) found in the rhizome of Wasabi has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. (BioPsychoSocial Medicine, 2022)
  
  

• Anticancer and anti-neuroinflammatory constituents: A wide range of biological studies on W. japonica have shown its anticancer and anti-neuroinflammatory constituents. (MDPI, 2021)
  
  

The Deception of Fake Wasabi

We all love the spicy kick of wasabi with our sushi, but did you know that most wasabi served in restaurants is actually fake? That's right, the green paste that we've come to associate with wasabi is usually made from a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and food coloring.

This deception is not just about taste, but also about health. Real wasabi has numerous health benefits, while fake wasabi does not. For example, real wasabi contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It also has antibacterial properties that can help prevent food poisoning.

On the other hand, fake wasabi is often made with artificial ingredients that can be harmful to our health. It can contain high levels of sodium and other additives that can contribute to heart disease, high blood pressure, and other health problems.

So why do restaurants serve fake wasabi instead of the real thing? One reason is that real wasabi is expensive and difficult to grow. It requires specific conditions, such as a cool, shaded environment with constant running water. As a result, real wasabi is a rare delicacy that is only found in high-end restaurants.

In conclusion, if you want to enjoy the health benefits of wasabi, it's important to seek out the real thing. Look for restaurants that serve real wasabi or consider growing your own. Not only will you be doing your health a favor, but you'll also be supporting sustainable agriculture practices.

Impact of Fake Wasabi on Health

When it comes to the health benefits of wasabi, it's important to distinguish between real wasabi and fake wasabi. Fake wasabi is made from a combination of horseradish, mustard, and food coloring, and is commonly served in most food pairings, especially sushi. Unfortunately, fake wasabi doesn't offer the same health benefits as real wasabi, and can even have a negative impact on your health.

One of the main concerns with fake wasabi is its high sodium content. Most fake wasabi products contain added salt, which can be harmful to those with high blood pressure or heart disease. Additionally, fake wasabi often contains additives and preservatives that can be harmful to your health.

On the other hand, real wasabi has been shown to have a number of health benefits. For example, it contains bioactive compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This can be particularly beneficial for those with conditions like arthritis or other inflammatory diseases.

Real wasabi also contains antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can help reduce your risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Overall, it's clear that real wasabi is the healthier choice when it comes to enjoying the benefits of this unique and flavorful plant. If you're looking to incorporate more real wasabi into your diet, try experimenting with some of our top healthy wasabi root and leaf recipes.

Wasabi in Food Pairings: Sushi and Beyond

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, wasabi is a staple ingredient that many people associate with sushi. But did you know that most of the wasabi served with sushi in restaurants is not real wasabi? Instead, it is typically a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and food coloring.

Real wasabi is made from the stem of the Wasabia japonica plant, which is native to Japan. It has a more delicate flavor profile than the imitation wasabi, with a slightly sweet and floral taste that is often described as "cool" rather than spicy.

Aside from sushi, real wasabi can be used in a variety of dishes to add a unique flavor and health benefits. Here are some ideas for incorporating real wasabi into your meals:

1. Wasabi Edamame: Boil fresh or frozen edamame and toss with a mixture of melted butter, soy sauce, and grated wasabi root.

2. Wasabi Guacamole: Mash ripe avocados with grated wasabi root, lime juice, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro for a flavorful twist on traditional guacamole.

3. Wasabi Aioli: Mix mayonnaise, grated wasabi root, minced garlic, and lemon juice for a spicy dipping sauce that pairs well with seafood or vegetables.

4. Wasabi Salad Dressing: Whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and grated wasabi root for a tangy dressing that adds a kick to any salad.

5. Wasabi Deviled Eggs: Mix hard-boiled egg yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, grated wasabi root, and a pinch of salt for a unique appetizer that is sure to impress.

Try This Amazing Recipe from Chef Mark Reinfeld (+Video Chef Lesson)

World famous Vegan Chef and Author Mark Reinfeld has provided a recipe for a Creamy Wasabi Garlic Bechamel Sauce. This delectable Wasabi Garlic Bechamel Sauce, crafted with fresh wasabi root, adds a delightful kick to your dishes. Whether drizzled over grilled tofu, tempeh, or an array of vibrant steamed vegetables, this sauce is a flavor explosion in every bite!

Five Healthy Wasabi Root Recipes

If you're looking to incorporate more real wasabi into your diet, here are five healthy recipes that showcase the unique flavor and health benefits of this versatile root.

Wasabi Avocado Toast

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado

• 2 slices of whole grain bread

• 1 tsp freshly grated wasabi root

• Salt and pepper to taste
  

Directions:

1. Toast the bread slices until golden brown.

2. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until smooth.

3. Add the freshly grated wasabi root to the mashed avocado, and mix well.

4. Spread the avocado mixture evenly over the toasted bread slices.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
   

Wasabi Salmon Poke Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh salmon, cubed

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp freshly grated wasabi root

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 1 cucumber, sliced

• 1 carrot, shredded

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
  
  

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and freshly grated wasabi root.

2. Add the cubed salmon to the bowl, and toss to coat in the marinade.

3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

4. To assemble the poke bowls, divide the cooked brown rice evenly between four bowls.

5. Top the rice with the marinated salmon, sliced avocado, sliced cucumber, and shredded carrot.
   
   

Wasabi Edamame

Ingredients:

• 1 lb frozen edamame, thawed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp freshly grated wasabi root

• Salt to taste
  
  

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. In a large bowl, toss the thawed edamame with the olive oil, freshly grated wasabi root, and salt.

3. Spread the edamame in a single layer on a baking sheet.

4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the edamame is crispy and lightly browned.
   
   

Wasabi Hummus

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 2 tbsp tahini

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp freshly grated wasabi root

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

Directions:

1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, and freshly grated wasabi root.

2. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
   

Wasabi Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 lb mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots), chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp freshly grated wasabi root

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. In a large bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with the olive oil, freshly grated wasabi root, and salt and pepper.

3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.

4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
   
   

These five recipes are just a few examples of the many ways you can incorporate real wasabi into your diet for both flavor and health benefits. Give them a try and see which ones become your new favorites!

Five Healthy Wasabi Leaf Recipes

Here are five healthy and delicious recipes that incorporate wasabi leaves.

Wasabi Leaf Wraps

For a refreshing snack or light meal, try making wasabi leaf wraps. Simply wash and dry the leaves, (optionally steamed), then fill them with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu, and some veggies like carrots and cucumber. Drizzle with a light dressing made from rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of honey.

Wasabi Leaf Salad

To make a tasty and nutritious salad, chop up some wasabi leaves and mix them with baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Top with a homemade dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Wasabi Leaf Pesto

For a unique twist on traditional pesto, try making wasabi leaf pesto. Simply blend together wasabi leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Serve over pasta, spread on a sandwich, or use as a dip for veggies.

Wasabi Leaf Chips

For a healthy and crunchy snack, try making wasabi leaf chips. Simply brush the leaves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy. Enjoy as a standalone snack or serve with your favorite dip.

Wasabi Leaf Sushi Rolls

For a fun and flavorful twist on traditional sushi, try making wasabi leaf sushi rolls. Simply replace the seaweed wrap with a wasabi leaf, then fill with your favorite sushi ingredients like avocado, cucumber, and cooked shrimp. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi paste for dipping.

These five recipes are just a few examples of the many ways you can incorporate wasabi leaves into your diet. Not only are they delicious, but they also offer a range of health benefits like anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Give them a try and see for yourself how tasty and nutritious wasabi leaves can be!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health benefits of real wasabi roots and leaves compared to fake wasabi?

Real wasabi roots and leaves offer a range of health benefits that are not found in fake wasabi. Real wasabi contains high levels of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and protect your body against free radicals. It also contains compounds that have been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help to prevent infections and boost your immune system. Additionally, real wasabi has been found to have a positive impact on digestive health and may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

What are some top healthy recipes using real wasabi root and leaves?

There are many delicious and healthy recipes that use real wasabi root and leaves. Some of our favorites include wasabi salmon, wasabi guacamole, wasabi hummus, wasabi deviled eggs, and wasabi shrimp stir-fry. These recipes are not only packed with flavor, but they also offer a range of health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and increased antioxidant intake.

Where does wasabi grow and how is it cultivated?

Wasabi is a plant that is native to Japan and is typically grown in cool, mountainous regions. The plant requires a very specific growing environment, including a constant supply of fresh, cool water. As a result, real wasabi is quite rare and expensive. It is typically grown in small, family-owned farms using traditional cultivation methods.

What are the effects of wasabi on the brain and digestive system?

Real wasabi has been found to have a positive impact on both the brain and digestive system. Studies have shown that the compounds found in real wasabi can help to improve cognitive function and memory. Additionally, real wasabi has been found to have a positive impact on digestion, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healthy gut bacteria.

How does real wasabi compare to horseradish in terms of health benefits and flavor?

While both real wasabi and horseradish have a similar taste and are often used interchangeably in cooking, there are some key differences between the two. Real wasabi contains a wider range of health benefits than horseradish, including higher levels of antioxidants and antibacterial compounds. Additionally, real wasabi has a more complex flavor profile than horseradish, with a subtle sweetness and a more delicate spiciness.

Whiskey Hill Farms Dedication to Regenerative Farming of Organic, California-Grown Wasabi

At Whiskey Hill Farms, we are dedicated to regenerative farming practices that prioritize the health of our soil, our crops, and our community. Our 14-acre organic farm, located in California's Central Coast, just south of Santa Cruz, is home to a variety of specialty crops, including real wasabi roots and leaves.

We believe that real wasabi is a superfood with numerous health benefits, and we are committed to growing it in the most sustainable and environmentally-friendly way possible. Our wasabi is grown using perfected conditions similar to those found in the mountains of Japan, where the plant has been grown for centuries.

Our wasabi is grown using poly cropping, which means that we grow two or more crops at the same time to maximize yield and minimize waste. We also use regenerative and permaculture practices to ensure that our soil is healthy and nutrient-rich, which in turn produces healthier and more nutritious crops.

At Whiskey Hill Farms, we are proud to be part of the movement towards more sustainable and ethical farming practices. We believe that by growing real wasabi in a way that is respectful to the environment and our community, we can help to create a healthier and more sustainable food system for everyone.

To help you incorporate real wasabi into your diet, we have put together a list of our top 5 healthy wasabi root and leaf recipes. These recipes are not only delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients and flavor profiles that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. So why not give them a try and see for yourself just how delicious and nutritious real wasabi can be?

Remember, when it comes to real wasabi, not all products are created equal. So if you want to experience the full health benefits and flavor of this amazing plant, be sure to choose organic, California-grown wasabi from Whiskey Hill Farms.

Disclaimer: Whiskey Hill Farms has made every effort to provide accurate health information for each produce item on our website. However, we encourage you to verify any information independently, as individual health needs and concerns may vary. Whiskey Hill Farms is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information provided on our website.

We’re all about real food that’s fresh, organic, and regeneratively grown.