The Art of Washoku: The Essence of Japanese Seasoning – Journey Through Time, Flavor & Fermentation

Seasoning is at the heart of Japanese cooking. Rooted in centuries of regional diversity, Japanese cuisine reflects the harmony of nature, climate, and human craftsmanship.

Wakayama Prefecture, blessed with a warm, humid climate and mountainous terrain, is home to the finest Budō Sansho (Japanese pepper). With its citrusy aroma and sharp spiciness, sansho enhances both traditional and modern dishes – pairing beautifully even with chocolate and cream cheese.

Wakayama is also the birthplace of time-honored soy sauce and miso brewing. Since 1688, the Nomura family has passed down their methods for producing these essential seasonings. The process starts with slow-cooked soybeans and fire-roasted wheat, then inoculated with carefully cultivated koji mold – a uniquely Japanese microorganism evolved through centuries of selection. This blend is aged in wooden barrels using natural yeast and local climate, fostering a rich, umami-laden flavor.

Fermented over two years, the resulting moromi mash is pressed with traditional methods and fire-heated to produce kiage – fresh soy sauce that retains the warmth of human touch and regional weather.

In Fukui Prefecture, kombu (kelp) from Hokkaido is aged under strict conditions. This tradition began with the Kitamae-bune trade routes, where kombu rested in Tsuruga’s snowy winters before continuing to Kyoto. The idea of aging kombu, much like fermenting miso or soy sauce, enriches its glutamic acid content, creating deep umami.

Japanese seasonings – sanshoo, soy sauce, miso, kombu – are not just ingredients. They are cultural treasures shaped by land, climate, and devotion. Passed down through generations, these fermented flavors continue to elevate meals across the world and bring people together at the table.

Watch the documentary The Art of Washoku on The HISTORY™ Channel.
https://www.bunka.go.jp/foodculture/e...

Subscribe to HISTORY Asia:    / historyasiatv  
Like us on Facebook:   / historyasia  
Find us on Instagram:   / historyasia