Glossary - Seasonings

Seven-Spice Chili Pepper

A mixture of seven different spices, but primarily chili pepper

What is seven-spice chili pepper?

Seven-spice chili pepper (七味唐辛子 in Japanese) is a mixture of seven spices and ingredients. Chili pepper, black pepper, sesame seeds, dried mandarin orange peel, aonori seaweed flakes, Japanese peppercorn, hemp seeds, and poppy seeds are the standard ingredients, but this mixture varies with each manufacturer. Usually used with warm noodles and flame-broiled foods, sprinkle on to taste.

Nutrition facts

Chili peppers are the primary ingredient of seven-spice chili pepper. Capsaicin invigorates the digestive tract, increasing appetite, and warms up the body by increasing blood flow.

Storage to prevent food loss

Can be stored at room temperature, but high temperatures, moisture, and sunlight will degrade its quality very quickly. Store in a refrigerator to maintain flavor and taste. To store for longer periods of time, place into an airtight container and store in a freezer.

Trivia

Seven-spice chili pepper originated in Tokyo during the Edo period (1603-1868). Originally mixed together as a herbal remedy from Chinese herbal medicines, it was sold in front of shrines and temples with the promise of its medical efficacy. It goes well on the then popular dish of soba noodles, which is what boosted its popularity.