Japanese cuisine and spicy aren’t often a pairing that goes together, but there are some exceptions. One is shichimi togarashi seasoning. The popular Japanese spice mix, also known as Japanese seven-spice seasoning, is popular for everything from Asian soups and tempura to noodles and grilled meats. Yet, for all its popularity in its native land, it can be a surprise to see this exotic ingredient in a recipe. You likely don’t have this complex seasoning just sitting in the spice rack, so where do you turn? What’s a good shichimi togarashi substitute that will work? Let’s review your choices.
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Your best bet (though tricky): Make it yourself
Granted, you’ll need a well-stocked spice rack for your best solution. Shichimi togarashi’s base is chili pepper, and cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes are good sub-ins here. But things get a little more exotic from there. Szechuan peppercorns, tangerine peel, and dried nori (seaweed) are called for, and those (for most) aren’t readily available in a spice rack. But if they are — or you’re planning well ahead — take a look at our shichimi togarashi recipe. There are many recipe variants out there actually, all seven spices and very aromatic.
In a pinch: Make a simple (though less aromatic) alternative
Shichimi togarashi is known for its complex citrusy and spicy flavor, and these “in a pinch” options will take that complexity of flavor right off the table. Instead, we rely on spice rack staples that are perfect for use when in immediate need. They are both spicy, but more neutral in flavor, using sesame seeds. They won’t add complexity to a dish, but they won’t ruin the expected taste of the recipe either.
Option 1:
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Pinch of black pepper
Option 2:
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Option 2 expands on the chili base as the cayenne pepper powder will be much spicier (due to density) than an equal amount of crushed red pepper.
Not a good substitute: Chinese five-spice powder
While they both have Asian roots and they are both seasonings, Chinese five-spice powder and shichimi togarashi otherwise have very little in common. In fact, Chinese five-spice powder is an entirely different flavor profile. Star anise and cloves are often primary ingredients, and there’s not even a hint of citrus. It’s not a good alternative to shichimi togarashi. In fact, the flavor is so strong in Chinese five-spice powder that it will completely change the recipe’s overall expected taste.
Must-read related posts
- Crushed Red Pepper Vs. Cayenne: Learn how these two popular spice rack staples really differ.
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- What’s A Good Cayenne Substitute? If you need an alternative for this chili, see your options.
I made this with nori+sesame furikake (no bonito or dashi powder, just toasted sesame and aonori), gochugaru, regular red pepper flakes, and freshly peeled tangerine peels… Used in a rib marinade/dry rub. Came out absolutely delicious, thank you so much!