What is Ichimi and Shitimi? Japanese spicy seasoning
In Japan, there are spices called Ichimi and Shichimi (Nanami). Simply put, it’s a powder of dried pepper. But, there is a big difference between Ichimi and Shichimi.
Difference between Ichimi and Shichimi
Ichi means 1, shichi (nana) means 7, mi means taste. The Ichimi contains only red peppers, but Shichimi contains red peppers, sesame seeds, Japanese pepper, Poppy seeds, Perilla Seeds, Green laver, Dried Orange peel etc. But in reality, there are not seven types of spices, and either five or ten types are called Shichimi. What is included depends on the manufacturer.
The more spicy is the Ichimi
Ichimi has only red pepper so it’s usually spicy than Shichimi. Shichimi has different types of spice, so It has a good aroma and a delicate taste. It depend on the person which use. Those who like spicy foods use Ichimi, and those who want to enjoy the aroma use Shichimi.
How to use it?
Japanese usually use for Japanese food like Udon, Soba, Gyudon. Those restaurant have Ichimi or Shichimi each table. Sometimes it is in clear case, but sometimes in like following case.
This is the shape of a gourd. Ichimi and Shichimi were originally sold in gourds so that they would not contain moisture. In modern times, only the shape of the gourd remains. Wood is good for absorbing moisture.
Ichimi and Shichimi have a salt-reducing effect
For Ichimi and Shichimi, the spiciness stimulates the tongue, so you can eat them without noticing even if they are low in salt. If you have high blood pressure or excessive salt, you can use Ichimi or Shichimi instead of using a lot of salt. However, overuse is bad for the stomach.
Let‘s use Ichimi and Shichimi!
It depends on the people how to use it. Some people use to curry, sprinkle for anything. I think it’s interesting to find your own way to enjoy it.
Vave introduce some dishes to fit the Ichimi and Shichimi.
(The image is the “Easy and delicious Japanese vegan miso ramen”)
