Wasabi Peas

One bite of wasabi and you are automatically transported to the land of the rising sun, replete with its lovely people, neon lights, bamboo forests and the towering Mount Fuji. However, the aftertaste hits you like a hurricane, burning your insides while casting a prickly sensation on your tongue. Essentially a pungent horseradish paste, Wasabi is not for everyone. This bottle green condiment is for those who are incredibly adventurous with their food, which the Japanese certainly are.

If you are a fan of spices, you must sample some wasabi coated peas during your time in Japan. While the peas are first dried and roasted to perfection, locally produced horseradish is turned into a fine powder and the peas are then doused in the same. With just the right amount of salt and spices, these peas make for the perfect snack. For a lot of locals, these are the perfect accompaniment to ice cold Asahi beer, while certain others prefer eating them with cups of green tea. While they are loaded with fibres, the calorie content of Wasabi peas can be quite high, and you should therefore control the amount you consume.
Where to buy: major supermarkets and convenience stores across Japan stock up on wasabi coated peas. In fact, they are also available internationally.