Embarking on a culinary adventure with Japanese cuisine but find yourself lacking Shichimi Togarashi? Fret not, as there are some fantastic substitutes that can provide a similar flavor profile. These alternatives will allow you to create delicious meals without compromising on taste and enjoyment.
Japan is known for its unique, delightful flavors, and spicy seasonings like Shichimi Togarashi play a significant role in their dishes. It’s essential to have the right substitutes within reach when exploring new recipes to create an authentic experience. With these simple suggestions, you’ll be ready to embark on a flavorful and rewarding culinary journey.

Key Takeaways
- Discover the best alternatives for Shichimi Togarashi
- Master cooking with spices to enhance your Japanese dishes
- Experiment with simple recipes to elevate your culinary skills
What is Shichimi Togarashi?
Shichimi Togarashi, also known as Japanese 7 Spice, is a delightful and zesty seasoning you can sprinkle on your dishes for that extra kick of flavor. It consists of seven ingredients: salt, chili, white poppy seeds, golden sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, orange (or mandarin) peel, brown mustard, and Sichuan pepper. This enticing blend offers saltiness and heat from the chili, a nutty essence from the seeds, and aromatic notes from the orange and Sichuan pepper. You might also hear it referred to as Nanami Togarashi. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile seasoning in your cooking!
The Best Simple Shichimi Togarashi Substitutes
In case you’re out of Shichimi Togarashi, here are some easy alternatives to consider:
- Sea salt and chili flakes or powder: A simple and quick substitute is to combine sea salt flakes and dried chili flakes or powder. Although fresh chili peppers won’t deliver the exact flavor, you can still use them as an alternative.
- Sea salt, sesame seeds, and chili flakes or powder: Enhance the substitute by adding toasted sesame seeds to the mix. This replicates the nutty flavors and appearance of Shichimi Togarashi.
- Sea salt, sesame seeds, chili flakes or powder, and orange zest: For an even closer match, sprinkle a tiny amount of grated orange zest into the blend. Avoid adding too much, as it could overpower the other flavors.
- Furikake: Although this Japanese seasoning lacks the heat of Shichimi Togarashi, it’s an excellent and delightful alternative.
- Ichimi Togarashi: This plain chili powder can be used in place of Shichimi Togarashi. While it may not be as complex in flavor, it’s better than nothing. Don’t forget to check the ingredients and add salt if needed.
Try these substitutes when you’re in a pinch and need a Shichimi Togarashi alternative for your dish.
Enhancing Your Cooking with Extra Spice Tips
Incorporate various spices, herbs, and spice blends like Japanese 7 spice for a citrusy and spicy flavor. Use seasoning in condiments, marinades, and create versatile spice combinations.
Favorite Simple Japanese Recipes
Enjoy these delightful dishes: Fried Eggs with Smashed Avo & Togarashi, Togarashi Beef, Japanese Omelette with Miso Mayo, Easy Japanese Burgers, Okonomiyaki (Japanese Cabbage Pancake), Japanese Steaks with Ginger Miso Mustard, and Super Yum Japanese Broccoli.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some alternatives to shichimi togarashi?
You can use a combination of red pepper flakes, orange zest, black and white sesame seeds, ground Sichuan pepper, ground ginger, and nori (seaweed) as a substitute for shichimi togarashi.
Comparing gochugaru and shichimi togarashi
Gochugaru | Shichimi Togarashi |
---|---|
Korean red pepper flakes | Japanese 7 spice blend |
Made from red chili peppers | Mixture of spices, including chili |
Used in Korean cuisine, like kimchi | Used in Japanese cuisine |
Mild to moderately spicy | Spicy with complex flavor |
Can I create my own Japanese 7 spice blend?
Yes, you can! Combine 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon ground Sichuan pepper, 1 teaspoon black and white sesame seeds, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1 teaspoon dried orange zest, and 1 teaspoon finely chopped nori.
What’s the difference between ichimi and shichimi togarashi?
Ichimi togarashi is a single-ingredient spice made from red chili pepper, while shichimi togarashi is a blend of seven spices including chili.
Are there any togarashi mixtures without sesame?
Yes, you can find or create a togarashi blend without sesame seeds by using other ingredients like red pepper flakes, dried citrus zest, and ground Sichuan pepper.
Can I use sansho pepper as a shichimi togarashi substitute?
While sansho pepper is not an exact substitute for shichimi togarashi, it can be used to add a unique, citrusy, and slightly numbing spice element to your dish.