How Long Does Wasabi Last? Does it Go Bad?

Have you ever opened up a container of wasabi and wondered, how long will this last?

Is it still safe to use after months in the refrigerator or does it go bad?

Whether you are a fan of sushi rolls sprinkled with the spicy green paste, or have your own dedicated ketchup-wasabi sauce recipe that calls for ‘a touch’ of wasabi – these questions may leave you scratching your head.

The answers can range from immediately-enjoyable flavor combinations to much longer shelf lives than you might expect.

But just as any food item has an expiration date, knowing when is the best time to use your Wasabi can help ensure its freshness and quality.

Let’s dive into understanding what makes Wasabi special and learn valuable information on how long it really lasts before going bad!

What’s Wasabi?

Wasabi is a condiment that dates back centuries in Japan.

Made from the root of the Wasabia Japonica plant, it’s typically served with sushi, but can be used in many mouth-watering ways.

The pungent and spicy taste adds an extra layer of excitement and zest to dishes.

It has options both in paste form as well as powder, so you can decide which version works best for your preferences.

So, next time you order sushi, don’t forget to ask for a dollop of Wasabi to top off the perfect Japanese meal.

How to Store Wasabi?

Storing wasabi can be tricky due to its moisture level and textural requirements.

Generally, it is best to purchase fresh wasabi in small quantities and add it to dishes shortly after purchasing.

However, when storing the remaining portion of a wasabi root, it should be placed in a tightly sealed container or bag with a damp paper towel so that is does not dry out.

It can then be stored in the refrigerator for one week or up to two months in the freezer depending on how much is left over.

For pre-prepared wasabi paste, once opened, it should also be placed in an airtight container or jar with minimal air exposure to preserve its flavour.

It will last up to three weeks when stored properly in the fridge or up to 10 months if kept in the freezer.

How Long Does Wasabi Last?

Wasabi paste is a spicy condiment used in many Asian dishes and provides a sharp, horseradish flavor.

If you’re wondering how long can it last, the answer varies depending on whether it’s pre-prepared or freshly grated and stored.

Wasabi paste that comes from a tube or jar can usually hold onto its flavor and texture for up to 2 years if kept refrigerated, while freshly grated wasabi is best enjoyed within 15 minutes.

To get the most longevity out of wasabi, be sure to store it in an airtight container, preferably with some liquid such as water or sweet vinegar mixed with soy sauce.

This will help preserve the hotness of the wasabi while keeping its vibrant color intact.

Can You Freeze Wasabi?

Yes, you can freeze wasabi.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you decide to do so.

First of all, wasabi that has been frozen will no longer be as crisp and fresh-tasting as it was before.

Secondly, the color of the wasabi may change slightly after being frozen.

If you still want to freeze your wasabi, the best way to do so is to place it in an airtight container in the freezer.

Wasabi paste or powder can also be frozen, but it is important to note that these forms of wasabi will not last as long in the freezer as whole wasabi root.

When thawing wasabi that has been frozen, it is best to do so slowly by placing it in the refrigerator overnight.

This will help preserve the flavor and texture of the wasabi as much as possible.

Once thawed, wasabi should be used immediately and not refrozen.

How to Tell If Wasabi is Bad?

The easiest way to tell if wasabi is bad is by its color.

If the wasabi has lost its bright green color and has turned brown or black, it has gone bad and should not be consumed.

The texture of the wasabi can also change over time, becoming mushy or crumbly.

If you see any mold growing on the surface of the wasabi, it should also be discarded.

Another way to tell if wasabi has gone bad is by its smell.

Fresh wasabi should have a sharp, pungent aroma.

If the wasabi smells sour or off, it has gone bad and should not be eaten.

If you’re not sure whether or not the wasabi is still good, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.

It’s better to waste a little bit of food than to risk getting sick from eating bad wasabi.

Conclusion

So, how long does wasabi last? Generally, wasabi will last about 1-2 weeks in the fridge.

If you keep it in the freezer, it can last up to 10 months.

When it comes to wasabi going bad, you’ll mostly likely see mold growing on it.

If you see mold, it’s best to throw it away.