Wasabi Peas
Wasabi Peas Recipe from Japan - Ingredients: wasabi, tahini, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard
Introduction
Wasabi peas are a popular snack known for their crunchy texture and spicy kick. These addictive little morsels are perfect for snacking on the go or serving at parties. In this article, we will explore the history of the recipe, cooking tips and tricks, nutrition information, serving suggestions, and more.
History
Wasabi peas originated in Japan, where wasabi is a commonly used condiment in traditional cuisine. The combination of crunchy peas and spicy wasabi creates a unique flavor profile that has become popular worldwide. Today, wasabi peas can be found in grocery stores and specialty food shops, making them a convenient and delicious snack option.
Ingredients
Coating
- 4 tsp wasabi powder
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
How to prepare
- Soak the peas in enough water to cover them overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C).
- Drain the peas and cook them according to the instructions on the package.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked peas with olive oil until they are well coated.
- Grease a baking sheet with oil and spread the peas evenly across it.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the peas for 5 hours, or until they appear dry and become crisp when bitten into.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine wasabi powder, tahini, rice vinegar, and mustard.
- Add the wasabi mixture to the hot peas, ensuring that all the peas are evenly coated.
- Using a rubber spatula, spread the peas on the baking sheet, separating them as much as possible.
- Increase the oven temperature to 250°F (121°C).
- Continue baking the peas for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the coating is dry.
Variations
- For a different flavor profile, try adding different spices or seasonings to the coating mixture. You can also experiment with different types of peas or beans for a unique twist on this classic snack.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When making wasabi peas, it's important to soak the peas overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy. Additionally, coating the peas with a mixture of wasabi powder, tahini, rice vinegar, and dijon mustard adds a flavorful and spicy kick to the snack. Be sure to spread the peas out on a baking sheet to ensure they bake evenly and become crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Wasabi peas can be enjoyed on their own as a crunchy snack or paired with other finger foods at a party. They also make a great topping for salads or soups for an added crunch and kick of flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the peas at a low temperature for an extended period of time helps to ensure they become crispy and crunchy. Be sure to spread them out on a baking sheet and separate them as much as possible for even cooking.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with almond butter or peanut butter for a similar creamy texture. You can also use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar in place of rice vinegar.
Make Ahead Tips
Wasabi peas can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. This makes them a convenient snack option for busy days or when you're on the go.
Presentation Ideas
Serve wasabi peas in a small bowl or dish for easy snacking. You can also sprinkle them on top of a salad or appetizer platter for added crunch and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Wasabi peas pair well with a variety of beverages, including beer, sake, or green tea. They also complement dishes with Asian flavors, such as sushi, stir-fries, or noodle dishes.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover wasabi peas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat them, simply place them in a preheated oven at 250°F (121°C) for a few minutes until they are warm and crispy again.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of wasabi peas contains approximately 150 calories. This makes them a satisfying snack option that won't derail your diet.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of wasabi peas contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel physical activity and brain function.
Fats
Wasabi peas are a low-fat snack option, with each serving containing only 2 grams of fat. This makes them a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks that are high in unhealthy fats.
Proteins
Each serving of wasabi peas contains approximately 6 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making these peas a nutritious snack option.
Vitamins and minerals
Wasabi peas are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients are important for overall health and can help support various bodily functions.
Alergens
Wasabi peas may contain allergens such as soy and wheat, so be sure to check the ingredient list if you have food allergies.
Summary
Overall, wasabi peas are a nutritious snack option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
Summary
Wasabi peas are a delicious and nutritious snack option that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with other dishes. With a crunchy texture and spicy kick, these addictive little morsels are sure to become a favorite in your snack rotation.
How did I get this recipe?
I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Wasabi Peas. It was a hot summer day, and I was attending a cooking class at a local community center. The instructor, a wise and experienced chef, had just returned from a trip to Japan and was eager to share some of the new culinary delights he had discovered.
As he began to explain the recipe for Wasabi Peas, my curiosity was piqued. I had never tasted anything quite like them before – the combination of spicy wasabi and crunchy peas seemed like the perfect blend of flavors. I knew that I had to learn how to make them for myself.
The chef walked us through the process step by step, explaining the importance of using fresh ingredients and precise measurements. He showed us how to mix the wasabi paste with soy sauce and sugar to create a flavorful marinade, and then coat the peas in the mixture before baking them in the oven until they were crispy and golden brown.
I followed along eagerly, taking notes and asking questions whenever I didn't understand a certain technique. The chef was patient and kind, offering guidance and encouragement as I worked to perfect the recipe.
After the peas had finished baking, the chef presented us with a tray of the finished product. I eagerly popped one into my mouth, savoring the spicy kick of the wasabi and the satisfying crunch of the peas. It was love at first bite.
From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making Wasabi Peas. I practiced the recipe over and over again, making adjustments and tweaks to suit my own tastes. I experimented with different types of peas and levels of wasabi, trying to find the perfect balance of flavors.
As I honed my skills, I began to share the recipe with friends and family, delighting in their reactions as they tried the unique and addictive snack for the first time. They were always amazed at how such a simple combination of ingredients could create such a complex and delicious flavor.
Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe for Wasabi Peas, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I even started to experiment with different variations, adding spices and seasonings to create new and exciting flavors.
But no matter how many different versions of Wasabi Peas I created, the original recipe always held a special place in my heart. It was the one that had started it all, the one that had sparked my passion for cooking and inspired me to explore new flavors and techniques.
And so, whenever I make Wasabi Peas now, I can't help but think back to that hot summer day in the community center, when I first learned how to make them. It was a moment that changed my life forever, opening up a world of culinary possibilities and bringing me closer to the joy of sharing delicious food with others.
I am grateful to that wise and experienced chef who introduced me to the recipe, and to all the people and places that have inspired me along the way. Cooking is not just a hobby for me – it is a way of life, a way of connecting with others and sharing the love and joy that food can bring.
And so, as I sit here in my kitchen, surrounded by the delicious aroma of freshly baked Wasabi Peas, I can't help but smile. I may have learned the recipe from someone else, but now it is truly mine, a part of me that I can pass on to future generations. And I can't wait to see where this culinary journey will take me next.
Categories
| Dijon Mustard Recipes | Japanese Recipes | Pea Recipes | Rice Vinegar Recipes | Tahini Recipes | Wasabi Recipes |