A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Wasabi
Learn to pronounce wasabi, the spicy Japanese horseradish paste used in sushi and other dishes.
wasabi
wuh-SAH-bee
/wəˈsɑːbi/ · wa · sa · bi
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
Wasabi is commonly found on Japanese restaurant menus, often served alongside sushi and sashimi. You might also encounter it in discussions about Japanese cuisine or when buying ingredients for home cooking.
Where the word comes from
The word 'wasabi' comes from Japanese, where 'wa' means 'Japanese' and 'sabi' refers to the plant itself, indicating it's the native Japanese species of horseradish.
Common ways people get it wrong
- wah-SAH-bee Some people start with a long 'ah' sound like in 'father', but the first syllable is a short 'uh' sound like in 'about'.
- wah-ZAH-bee The 's' sound is a clear 's' like in 'snake', not a 'z' sound.
Frequently asked
Is wasabi always spicy?
The spiciness of wasabi can vary greatly. Freshly grated wasabi is typically more pungent and flavorful than the powdered or paste versions found in many supermarkets.
What's the difference between wasabi and horseradish?
True wasabi is a plant native to Japan, with a more complex, pungent flavor. Most green 'wasabi' served outside of Japan is actually a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and green food coloring.
How do you eat wasabi?
Wasabi is typically mixed with soy sauce to create a dipping sauce for sushi and sashimi. A small amount is usually sufficient due to its strong flavor.
