What is Wasabi? Is it actually good for health?
Are you someone who loves gorging on Sushi, Dimsus or Japanese-style delicacies? Then here's all you need to know about this green-spicy and pungent condiment, which is the much-loved staple condiment of Japanese cuisine.
Well, we are talking about the much-loved wasabi, which is a fiery condiment that is loved for its unique taste, flavor, texture and health benefits. Here's all you need to know about this unique condiment and whether it is actually good for health.
What is Wasabi?
Wasabi is popularly used as a condiment and flavoring agent in several oriental and Japanese delicacies. But you will be amazed to know that wasabi is basically a Japanese horseradish, which is a cruciferous vegetable that grows in humid weather around the streambeds of mountain river valleys of Japan, China, Korea, New Zealand, and North America.
How is it made?
Wasabi is basically made from the rhizome of a wasabi plant. It is prepared by grating the stem part of it over a traditional-style Japanese grater, which has a sandpaper-like texture, which gives it a thick texture. In fact, the reason why wasabi has a fiery taste and pungent aroma is because of the presence of isothiocyanate, which gives a strong taste and flavor.
Is Wasabi good for health and metabolism?
Wasabi can be good for health and metabolism when consumed in moderation.
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It contains compounds like isothiocyanates, which have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential cancer-fighting properties. These compounds may also help boost metabolism slightly by promoting fat oxidation. Additionally, wasabi supports digestion and may aid in detoxification due to its antioxidant content. However, most commercial wasabi is often mixed with horseradish and additives, so fresh or authentic wasabi is preferable for health benefits.
Benefits of Wasabi?
Wasabi is naturally rich in compounds like ITCs—isothiocyanates—which is the reason that makes it a superfood. Wasabi has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties that help in overall healing. Apart from that, a small intake of this wasabi can help in boosting immunity, improving gut health and metabolism, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and improving arthritis and bone-related issues, to name a few.
How much wasabi is too much?
Excessive intake of fiery wasabi can trigger ulcers and cause some serious discomfort, diarrhea, and vomiting and may also turn fatal in rare cases. However, to reap the benefits, it is best to maintain moderation and consume just a little bit on the tip of a pinky finger. This is the key to relishing without affecting health.
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