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Japanese-Style Seasoning Salt

This aromatic Japanese-style seasoning salt is a versatile vegan condiment that brings a complex balance of umami, citrus and spice to your kitchen. Inspired by traditional furikake and shichimi togarashi, this blend relies on toasted nori and Sichuan peppercorns for depth, while the inclusion of fresh tangerine or lemon zest provides a bright, fragrant lift. It is a simple way to elevate everyday meals with professional flair.

Keep a jar of this savoury blend on hand to transform simple steamed rice, grilled vegetables or silken tofu. The combination of toasted sesame and poppy seeds adds a delicate crunch, making it an excellent finishing salt for avocado toast or even popcorn. As it contains fresh zest, this homemade seasoning is best enjoyed within a few days to capture the zingy oils at their most potent.

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Ingredients for Japanese-Style Seasoning Salt

  • 1 1/2 toasted, crumbled nori sheets

  • 35g toasted sesame seeds

  • finely grated zest of 2 tangerines or lemons

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt

  • 1 tablespoon toasted Sichuan peppercorns

  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger

  • 2 teaspoons paprika

  • 2 teaspoons toasted white or black poppy seeds

  • large pinch of cayenne pepper

How to make Japanese-Style Seasoning Salt

Grind toasted, crumbled nori sheets in a spice mill to a fine powder. Add toasted sesame seeds, finely grated zest of tangerines or lemons, kosher salt, toasted Sichuan peppercorns, ground ginger, paprika, toasted white or black poppy seeds, and cayenne pepper; pulse to a uniform spice blend but not to a powder. DO AHEAD: Can be made 3 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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