Yuzu Kosho, the Secret Ingredient That’s Been Missing in Your Pantry!

If you need something to literally spice up your cooking routine, if you want to try a new flavor, or if you just want to impress friends and family with restaurant-quality dishes, then yuzu kosho should be your next kitchen staple that will make you feel like a five-star chef!
With a small addition of this amazing condiment, the usual soup, noodles, steak, or fish will develop a new personality and new flavor that will absolutely fascinate you.

Yuzu kosho is a fermented seasoning paste made from red or green chili peppers, yuzu zest, and salt. This paste is a local specialty of the Kyushu region, and it is believed to have originated in either Oita prefecture or Fukuoka prefecture. Originally, this condiment was made by families, but it started gaining popularity after being offered as a souvenir in the onsen town of Yufuin Onsen. Now it’s a specialty that can be found all over Japan and even abroad!

Even though it is made with just a few simple ingredients, yuzu kosho has a rich and complex flavor that will add an instant “kick” to all your dishes. It’s no coincidence that this condiment is the secret weapon of many acclaimed chefs!
A small amount of this special paste will transform every dish, adding complexity and layering of flavors that see the heat of the chili peppers intertwine with the tangy and fragrant aroma of the yuzu zest.

And when we say that it will be the perfect addition to all of your dishes, we literally mean all! Traditionally it is used in hot pot dishes, miso soup, or sashimi, however yuzu kosho is an amazing companion to your kitchen for everyday meals. You can try yuzu kosho diluted in a dipping sauce, or in a vinaigrette to dress a salad. You can add it in sauce or directly in the pan when cooking meat, fish, or vegetables, include it in a fish soup, or mix it with raw tuna or salmon for a special spicy tartare. Yuzu kosho is also amazing for marinades, adding that beautiful umami flavor to meat and fish, and is even great in desserts! If you like the chocolate-chili combo, then yuzu kosho might be the perfect addition to your next cake or chocolate mousse!

 

If you live in Japan, yuzu kosho can be found in every supermarket and convenience store. For everyone that lives abroad, you can find yuzu kosho in certain Asian supermarkets, in specialised Japanese food retailers such as MTC Kitchen Home, and even on Amazon!
Yuzu kosho can also be easily made at home. Follow this amazing recipe on Tokyo Weekender, and make sure to try their yuzu kosho fried chicken recipe as well.

Versatile like few other ingredients, the sky’s the limit with yuzu kosho. This amazing seasoning has all it takes to become your own personal “magic potion”, and is definitely a must-have in your pantry!

 

Want to try Yuzu Kosho for yourself? When you’re planning your trip to Japan, mention it to our team of experts and they’ll be sure to recommend the best places to buy it!

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Featured photo from Kokorocares

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