Karashi 辛子 (Mustard)

“Karashi” is a popular oriental mustard in Japan.

DESCRIPTION
As you can see from the word “Oriental” it’s not original from Japan.
It is said it originally came from central Asia. But in Japan, we call this “Karashi”.
The difference between “Karashi” and Mustard is firstly the type of the main ingredient, “Mustard greens” is different. The one Mustard uses which is grown in those regions, the volatile is weak, so it’s not that spicy.
On the other hand, the one “Karashi” uses, has strong volatile, so the spicy air comes to your nose, which you feel it’s spicy.
The second difference is how it’s made. Mustard uses not only “Mustard greens” but also other spices and ingredients and adjust the taste.This is also why it’s not that hot.
“Karashi” uses only “Mustard greens” so the spiciness is directly in it.

HOW TO EAT
In Japan, “Karashi” is use for many foods.
The most common is using for fried food, such “Ton-katu”.
Also we use for “Oden” and “Shao mai”(steamed meat dumplings) and so on.
Picture: Tonkatsu

Picture: Oden