wasabi

American  

[wah-sah-bee] / wɑˈsɑ bi /

noun

1. an Asian plant, Eutrema wasabi, of the mustard family.

2. the pungent, greenish root of this plant, which can be grated and used as a condiment.

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wasabi British  

/ wəˈsɑːbɪ /

noun

1. a Japanese cruciferous plant, Eutrema Wasabi , cultivated for its thick green pungent root

2. the root of this plant, esp in paste or powder form, used as a condiment in Japanese cookery

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Etymology

Origin of wasabi

(< New Latin ) < Japanese

Explanation

The spicy, edible root called wasabi can be ground into an even spicier green paste that's served with many Japanese foods — and is also called wasabi. Watch out for the wasabi sitting innocently on the plate beside your sushi! It may look like a blob of avocado, but it tastes pungent and deeply spicy. The flavor and spice of wasabi is often compared to horseradish or spicy mustard; you don't feel the heat on your tongue so much as in the back of your nose. Sometimes the Japanese plant is unavailable and horseradish root is used instead — sushi chefs call this "Western Wasabi."

Example Sentences

The nigiri is where Ikigai really shines, but start with the freshly grated wasabi, especially if you’ve never tried it before.

From Salon • Feb. 2, 2026

We started with wasabi shumai filled with pork and cabbage, and enough wasabi to bring a huge smile to my face.

From Salon • Jan. 13, 2026

Although not native to the UK, Mr Old stresses the conditions for growing wasabi on his farm are ideal - but a warming climate leaves a bitter taste in his mouth.

From BBC • Sep. 17, 2024

The I.S.S. galley is often stocked with wasabi and hot sauce.

From New York Times • Nov. 12, 2023

But somehow they figured out that eating wasabi kept them healthier.

From "The Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael Pollan