The Wonders of Wasabi
Recently, MakiMom attempted to clear up a sinus infection by eating wasabi, with limited results (Sorry, MakiMom, but sometimes western medicine is just more effective!). I think most of our Arizona friends might also suggest that she try chiles, but that advice would have been less helpful. The effect of chiles is felt mostly on the tongue, and involves a longer period of suffering. Wasabi is felt mainly in the sinuses, and although the sensation is intense, it is relatively brief. So if you are basically only a semi-masochistic wuss (like your guest blogger), wasabi is definitely the better alternative.
Wasabi is commonly referred to as Japanese horseradish, and in fact sometimes horseradish is dressed up and presented as wasabi, so it pays to be choosy in your choice of sushi bars, unless you are just having the worst day ever and are desperately in need of a fix and happen to be passing a Fresh and Easy store. Real wasabi is more expensive and highly perishable, but if you need a higher quality of suffering, this delicacy will deliver. It needs to be kept covered until served, so sushi chefs often snuggle it up against those cute little seaweed palm frond designs, right next to the ginger slices.
Could MakiMom grow her own wasabi in Arizona? Anyone?
