Authentic Japanese Wasabi Rhizome, imported fresh!

  • Green wasabi on a gray surface with a Japanese flag in the background
  • Fresh Japanese Wasabi Root (Real Wasabi Rhizome) - Nordic Catch
  • Fresh Japanese Wasabi Root (Real Wasabi Rhizome) - Nordic Catch
  • Fresh Japanese Wasabi Root (Real Wasabi Rhizome) - Nordic Catch
1 4

Nordic Catch

Fresh Japanese Wasabi Root (Real Wasabi Rhizome)

Fresh Japanese Wasabi Root (Real Wasabi Rhizome)

Fresh Japanese wasabi root with a clean, aromatic heat and smooth finish. Unlike typical “wasabi” paste, real wasabi delivers a bright, refined flavor that enhances sushi, sashimi, and premium seafood.
$95.00
$105.00 $95.00
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  • Follow our storage instructions to preserve rhizome up to 3 months! We do not recommend freezing!
  • Imported fresh from Shizuoka, Japan
  • Special order, will call to arrange delivery.
  • Never frozen! Ships with 1-3 day delivery!

What Is Real Wasabi?

Most wasabi served outside of Japan is not real wasabi—it’s typically a mix of horseradish, mustard, and coloring.

True wasabi (Wasabia japonica) is a delicate root prized for its:

  • fresh, green aroma
  • smooth, short-lived heat
  • clean, slightly sweet finish

It doesn’t burn like horseradish. Instead, it adds balance and enhances the natural flavor of the food.

Why Fresh Wasabi?

Fresh wasabi offers a completely different experience than paste.

  • More aromatic and complex
  • Less harsh heat
  • Cleaner flavor that fades quickly
  • Made to order when grated

Once grated, wasabi is best enjoyed immediately, making it a true chef-level ingredient.

Flavor Profile

Fresh wasabi is subtle but distinctive.

Expect:

  • bright, herbal aroma
  • gentle heat that rises quickly and fades
  • slight sweetness
  • clean finish that complements raw fish

It enhances rather than overwhelms.

How to Use Wasabi Root

Grating (Traditional Method)

  • Use a fine grater or oroshigane
  • Grate in small circular motions
  • Let sit for 1–2 minutes before serving

This activates the flavor.

Best Pairings

Fresh wasabi is ideal with:

Use sparingly—small amounts go a long way.

Storage

Fresh wasabi is perishable and should be handled carefully.

  • Wrap in a damp paper towel
  • Store in the refrigerator
  • Keep in an airtight container

For best quality, use within a few weeks.

Why Buy Wasabi from Nordic Catch

Nordic Catch sources premium ingredients to complement its seafood offerings.

Our wasabi is selected for:

  • freshness and quality
  • proper handling and storage
  • suitability for sushi-grade applications

It’s part of a curated selection designed to elevate your at-home dining experience.

Product Details

Product: Fresh Japanese Wasabi Root
Species: Wasabia japonica
Origin: Japan
Condition: Fresh
Packaging: Wrapped and protected for transit

Storage Instructions

Printed detailed page included in each order!

Wrap each individual rhizome in a wet paper towel and refrigerate in an open bowl or an open plastic vegetable bag.  Re-wet the paper towel every few days. If the Wasabi darkens, peel the outer layer lightly with a potato peeler before grating.  The cut areas will oxidize only superficially; the heat and flavor will remain unchanged under the oxidized layer. 

Portion Size

Choose from a full size, or half size wasabi rhizome.
A full size weighs approximately 120-150g (4-6oz).

Source

Imported fresh from Shizuoka, Japan

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$65.00
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Real Wasabi vs Wasabi Paste

Most “wasabi” served outside of Japan is not real wasabi. Here’s how fresh Japanese wasabi root compares to typical wasabi paste.

Type Ingredients Flavor Heat Best Use
Fresh Wasabi Root 100% Wasabia japonica Bright, herbal, slightly sweet Clean, short-lived, aromatic Sushi, sashimi, premium dishes
Wasabi Paste Horseradish, mustard, coloring Sharp, aggressive, one-dimensional Strong, lingering burn General use, low-cost applications

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