If you are someone who loves Japanese food, you might have heard of “tako wasabi.” What is it really? So, why do people love it so much? How to get it at home, at a restaurant? Read on for the simple English answers to all these questions in this blog post, and you can go on learning everything there is to know about the obscure dish from Japan.
What Is Tako Wasabi?
Wasabi Tako is a classic Japanese dish of raw octopus (tako in Japanese) with wasabi. It is often marinated in wasabi paste soy sauce and sometimes sake or Mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine). It is a spicy, tangy and mild chewy snack that goes well as an accompaniment with sake or beer.
Tako wasabi (octopus with Japanese mustard) is quite often a starter or small side dish in Japanese pubs, izakayas (酒肴, izakaya) in Japan.
It has a flavorful punch, and the chewy octopus vs zingy wasabi texture combo is the signature of this one.
The History of Tako Wasabi
Tako wasabi is mostly a new Japanese dish and not one of those ancient recipes from the hundreds of years since. It became popular in the 20th century, just as Japan started blooming izakaya culture. There are these small, flavorful things that izakayas serve to match drinks, and tako wasabi was the right fit.
Influenced by this, it started to become recognized for its sharp yet refreshing flavour, and people that liked stronger flavours loved the dish. You’ll find it in a whole lot of Japanese restaurants right now, even convenience stores now.
Why Do People Love Tako Wasabi?
There are many reasons why people love tako wasabi. Here are some of the most common:
1. It’s Packed with Flavor
Tako wasabi has a real taste. The spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds comes from wasabi, and the octopus has a mild, tangy, sweet flavour to balance out the heat. It is so damn satisfying when you eat this duck.
2. It’s a Great Snack with Drinks
Many people in Japan like to have tako wasabi with beer or sake. Given the pungent nature of the dish, it makes great appetizers and drinking food.
3. It’s Easy to Share
Since tako wasabi is normally in small portions, it is friendly for sharing among friends. Whether it is a restaurant or any other party, pass around a small piece of tako wasabi and let everyone taste it.
4. It’s Low in Calories
Tako wasabi is perfect for a low-calorie treat, basically. An octopus + seasonings are really all it is, so they are not bad for being light and non-greasy. It is guilty free for anyone on a diet.
How Is Tako Wasabi Made?
Making tako wasabi at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe you can try:
Ingredients:
- 100 grams of raw octopus (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon of wasabi paste
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of Mirin (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Clean the Octopus: If you’re using a fresh octopus, make sure it’s cleaned properly. If it’s frozen, thaw it first.
- Cut into Small Pieces: Chop the octopus into small, bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to eat and helps the flavours soak in.
- Mix with Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the wasabi paste, soy sauce, Mirin (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Add the Octopus: Toss the chopped octopus in the mixture until it’s well coated.
- Let It Marinate: Let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes so the flavours can blend together.
- Serve: Serve chilled as an appetizer or a side dish.
This recipe is quick, simple, and delicious. It’s perfect if you want to try making Japanese food at home.
Where to Eat Tako Wasabi in Japan
Many izakayas, sushi places and convenience stores have tako wasabi in Japan if you are there. Here are some restaurants where you can taste this dish:
1. Izakayas
At most, izakayas Tako wasabi is a small starter of the house. That should be quick bites or otsumami (snacks), space in the menu a standard listing.
2. Sushi Restaurants
At some sushi places, tako wasabi comes in addition to standard sushi top-ups even. It’s a fun service but a fairly reliable way to get into it another way.
3. Supermarkets and Convenience Stores
You can find pre-made Tako wasabi in Japanese supermarkets and convenience stores. These packs are eat-rite and great for in-between snacks while on the go.
Tips for Enjoying Tako Wasabi
Some more ideas to like tako wasabi more:
- Pair it with Drinks: As has been said before, tako wasabi is super fun with beer, sake or even shochu (Japanese distilled) here. They perfectly balance one another.
- Eat It Cold: The good thing about tako wasabi is that it tastes great when chilled. It firms up the octopus in the cold and keeps wasabi from being too potent.
- Start Small: If not in favour of hot food, then introduce a little bite first. Wasabi is quite spicy and can be very strong for a person who does not eat wasabi.
- Experiment: You can tweak the recipe to taste. More wasabi, if you want, it is a little spicier. If it is sweet, then add a little bit of Mirin
Health Benefits of Tako Wasabi
Tako wasabi isn’t just delicious; it’s also good for you! Here are some of the health benefits:
1. High in Protein
Octopus is a great source of protein, which helps build and repair muscles and keeps you feeling full.
2. Low in Fat
Tako wasabi is low in fat, making it a healthy snack choice compared to fried or greasy foods.
3. Rich in Minerals
Octopus is rich in minerals like iron, copper, and selenium, which are important for good health.
4. Boosts Digestion
Wasabi has antibacterial properties and can help aid Digestion. It’s also believed to help prevent foodborne illnesses.
Final Thoughts
Tako wasabi is a Japanese dish that is of great taste but distinctive and also loved by quite many. It is a delicious snack to have with drinks or as an appetizer because of its creamy texture and spicy taste. From a restaurant in Japan to at home, tako wasabi is definitely your new favourite Japanese treat.
Next time you want something different, try out tako wasabi for real, though if you’re adventurous with food, you might totally come to love its strong taste and fun texture!
Share with us if you have experience with Tako Wasabi.
