Furikake – Homemade Japanese Condiment (ふりかけ 自家製調味料)

What is Furikake?

Furikake (ふりかけ) is a dry Japanese condiment sprinkled over rice, noodles, vegetables, or salads. It delivers a burst of umami flavor, crunch, and sometimes a hint of sweetness or spiciness, depending on the ingredients used.

Why Make Homemade Furikake?

• Customizable to your taste.

• Free from additives or preservatives.

• Utilizes leftover dry ingredients.

• Economical and easy to prepare.

• Long shelf life.

Basic Ingredients

• 1/2 cup white sesame seeds

• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds

• 3 sheets of toasted nori (seaweed)

• 1 tablespoon salt

• 1 tablespoon sugar

Optional Ingredients (choose one or more)

• 2 tablespoons shiitake mushroom powder

• 1 large handful of katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes, to be blended)

• 1 tablespoon wasabi powder

• 1 tablespoon miso powder

• 2 tablespoons dried shiso leaves

• 1 tablespoon ginger powder

• 2 tablespoons dried seaweed (hijiki, aonori, kelp, etc.)

• 2 tablespoons egg powder

• 1 tablespoon dashi powder

• 1 tablespoon cherry blossom (sakura) powder

• 1 tablespoon umeboshi (pickled plum) powder

Ingredient Explanations

• White and black sesame seeds: Provide crunch and a toasted flavor.

• Nori: Dried seaweed used in sushi, rich in umami.

• Salt & sugar: Balance the taste with both salty and slightly sweet notes.

Optional additions:

• Katsuobushi (dried bonito): Imparts a strong umami flavor.

• Shiitake mushroom powder: Offers a plant-based umami taste.

• Wasabi or ginger powder: Adds a spicy kick.

• Dried shiso leaves: Provide a herbaceous, refreshing, and slightly citrusy flavor.

• Dried seaweed: Enhances marine richness.

• Egg, dashi, or miso powder: Adds depth and complexity.

• Umeboshi powder: Contributes a salty, tangy taste.

• Cherry blossom powder: Adds a subtle floral note.

Homemade Furikake Preparation

1. Toast the sesame seeds
   Heat a pan over medium heat and add the white and black sesame seeds. Toast them, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. Prepare the nori
   Tear the toasted nori sheets into small pieces by hand or using kitchen scissors.

3. Mix the ingredients
   In a bowl, combine the toasted sesame seeds, nori pieces, salt, sugar, and any optional ingredients chosen.

4. Lightly blend (optional)
   For a more uniform texture, briefly blend the mixture. The goal is to maintain a slightly granular texture, not a fine powder.

Preparation Tips

• Toast the sesame seeds well: This enhances their aroma and flavor.

• Avoid over-blending: A good furikake should have texture, not be a fine powder.

• Taste and adjust: Start with a small amount of salt and sugar, then adjust to your preference.

Storage

Store your furikake in an airtight container, away from light and moisture. It keeps for several weeks at room temperature. Do not refrigerate, as this may reduce its crunchiness.

Uses

• On plain rice or rice balls (onigiri)

• In hot or cold noodles (udon, soba, ramen)

• On tofu, eggs, or avocado

• On grilled or roasted vegetables

• In green or cabbage salads

• To flavor popcorn or homemade chips