Wasabi: Spicy or Pungent?

By:  Yasmine Hadri
April 23, 2025

Wasabi: Spicy or Pungent? A Unique Flavor Experience

By: Yasmine  Hadri 

If you’ve ever eaten sushi, you’ve probably noticed that small, bright green paste next to the soy sauce. That’s wasabi—a unique Japanese ingredient that sparks debate among food lovers. Is it spicy like chili peppers, or is it pungent in a completely different way? Some describe it as “burning,” while others say it gives them a strong sensation in their nose but fades quickly. So, what’s the truth behind wasabi’s taste?

What is Wasabi?

Wasabi is a plant related to mustard and horseradish, grown mainly in Japan. Its root is ground into a paste that accompanies sushi. However, most wasabi found outside Japan is actually fake—a mix of horseradish, mustard, and green dye—because real wasabi is difficult to cultivate.

Fresh wasabi has a more complex and milder taste than artificial versions, making it a rare delicacy for those who appreciate authentic flavors.

Is Wasabi Spicy or Pungent?

1. Chili Pepper Heat vs. Wasabi’s Sharp Hit

Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which creates a burning sensation in the mouth that lingers. Wasabi, on the other hand, contains isothiocyanates, which evaporate quickly and hit the sinuses rather than the tongue, creating a sharp but short-lived effect.

2. Nose-Tingling Sensation

Instead of burning the mouth, wasabi creates a strong tingling in the nose and sometimes even makes people tear up.

3. Fast Reaction, Quick Disappearance

Unlike chili heat, which lasts, wasabi’s intensity fades within seconds, making it a fleeting yet powerful taste experience.

Conclusion: Spicy or Pungent?

Wasabi isn’t “spicy” in the traditional sense. Instead, it delivers a sharp, pungent sensation that briefly takes over the sinuses. It’s a unique flavor that some love and others find overwhelming. Either way, wasabi remains one of the most distinct and exciting food experiences in the world.