What’s the Best Way to Store Fresh Wasabi?

We hear this question all the time, along with another one: How long does fresh wasabi keep in the fridge? It’s a great question, because a little wasabi goes a long way, and proper storage helps you make the most of every rhizome. When cared for correctly, fresh wasabi can last three to four weeks in the refrigerator. Below are a few simple techniques to help you keep it fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. And rest assured, at Half Moon Bay Wasabi, we ship our rhizomes immediately after harvest so you’re always starting with the freshest product possible.

The easiest and most reliable method is to wrap the wasabi in a paper towel, lightly dampen the towel with tap water, and store it in a zip-lock bag in the fridge. That’s it.

Another effective way to store wasabi is to fully submerge the rhizome in cold water, cover the container, and refrigerate it. Be sure to change the water every four to five days to keep it fresh.  While this method takes up a bit more room in your fridge, the water does a good job at keeping the tops fresh and crisp and prevents any cut areas from oxidizing and turning black.

Finally, when you’re ready to enjoy your wasabi, only peel off the skin of the portion you plan to grate and leave the rest of the skin intact. This protects the remaining rhizome from exposure to air. Once grated, wasabi should be eaten right away, within 5 to 20 minutes, for the fullest balance of heat, sweetness, and subtle earthy flavor. One experiment we encourage new wasabi tasters to try is to taste the wasabi immediately after grating and then again in five minutes. You'll notice how the heat increases and, like a fine wine, the flavors open up. 

Fresh, properly stored wasabi is a treat worth savoring: floral, aromatic, and a heat that is much more complex than the stuff that comes out of a tube.