Grow Your Own Wasabi
Wasabi has a reputation for being difficult to grow and overly sensitive to its environment. Not true, according to Tasha Greer in Grow Your Own Spices.
“The truth is, it’s not difficult to grow wasabi if you know how.”
Greer proceeds to explain, in some detail, how to grow wasabi at home either from plantlets or seed, how to care for the plants and when to harvest (1 - 3 years).
“You will need to grow wasabi mostly outdoors, in a shaded area such as under an outcropping of trees. You will also need to water often. So, easy access to cold water is important.”
Wasabi paste is made by grating the root of the plant, which releases the volatile compounds that give it its distinctive taste.
“According to Japanese tradition, you must grate wasabi with a smile. Also, inhale deeply as you do to clear your sinus passages. Eat within 15 minutes of grating.