Furikake (Japanese Seasoning) (2024)

Furikake is a savory Japanese spice blend made with dried seaweed (nori), toasted sesame seeds, salt, and spices, typically used as a Japanese rice seasoning, but delicious on everything! Vegan & Gluten-free. Video.

This Furikake recipe is so savory and toasty! It’s a Japanese spice blend (or condiment) that is often sprinkled over Japanese Rice. But we’ve been using it on everything from Avocado Toast, to Poke bowls, to Poke Beets, to ourVegan Ramen! Lately, I’ve been sprinkling it over avocado toast and cucumber salads for the best flavor!

Recently a reader asked me how to make it because where she lived, it was nowhere to be found. These days it is pretty accessible in urban areas, easily found at most upscale grocery stores, Asian Markets, and even at Trader Joe’s! I really love this brand of Furikake! But if you, like her, would like to make it yourself, it is easy and doable!

Homemade Furikake would also make a beautiful hostess gift!

What is Furikake?

Furikake is a Japanese seasoning typically made with toasted sesame seeds, nori, salt, sugar. It varies from region to region and can also include anything from bonito flakes, to chili flakes to miso powder to sh*take powder to poppy seeds. Some versions even include dried shiso leaves (another thing to do with your shiso leaves next summer).

Why You’ll Love This!

1. Delicious topping for so many recipes! Furikake seasoning will instantly enhance any dish. It is so versatile and can be used in many ways- scroll down!
2. Easy to make. Making furikake is as simple as toasting sesame seeds, mixing with crushed nori, and combining with salt and sugar. We also list a variety of optional add-ins that can take the flavor up a notch!
3. Lasts a long time. Once made, this seasoning will store in an airtight jar for up to 6 months. You’ll probably go through it before then, but it’s great to know it won’t spoil anytime soon.
4. It’s a great hostess gift. This is a fun and unique gift idea that people will love. Place it in a jar with a ribbon and use as the perfect gift for your next dinner party!

Furikake Ingredients

• White sesame seeds: Lightly ground and toasted to release their oil, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the seasoning.
• Nori seaweed sheets: Brings a distinct umami taste and sea-like essence to the blend.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the other ingredients in the furikake seasoning.
• Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the blend, providing a pleasant contrast to the savory components. Optional, but good!

How do you Make Furikake?

1. Lightly grind sesame seeds to release their oil.
2. Toast sesame seeds until fragrant and golden.
3. Mix with shredded nori.
4. Season with salt and sugar.
5. Optional: Add chili flakes, bonito, dried shiso, shiitake powder or miso powder.
6. Store in an air-tight jar for up to 6 months.

Lightly grinding the sesame seeds releases their oil, making them more flavorful when toasted.

Toast until nutty and fragrant in a frying pan or cast iron skillet, stirring constantly over very low heat for 8-9 minutes.

Shred, crumble or cut nori sheets.

To crumble nori sheets, tear into small pieces, then crumble with your fingers. Or cut with a knife or scissors.

Stacking and folding the nori before slicing makes for faster and easier work.

Then just mix everything together in a small bowl, adding salt and sugar.

Furikake Additions (all optional)

• 2 teaspoons shiitake powder (toast alongside sesame seeds in the pan)
• 1 tablespoon dulse (toast alongside sesame seeds in the pan)
• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
• 1-3 tablespoons bonito flakes
• ½ teaspoon wasabi powder
• 1 teaspoon kelp powder
• ¼ teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon miso powder
• 2 teaspoons dried shiso leaves

Storage

Once you make it, furikake seasoning will last for so long! Store in a sealed jar or airtight container for 4-6 months.

Ways to use Furikake Seasoning

There are many uses for this tasty Japanese condiment!

1. Sprinkle it over white rice or rice balls.
2. Top off Poke salad or poke bowls.
3. Season a soft-boiled egg, a sunny side egg, or a scramble!
4. Season Tofu with it.
5. Sprinkle over noodles or ramen.
6. Sprinkle over Miso Soup.
7. Top off miso salmon or sprinkle over shrimp.
8. Sprinkle on sushi or handrolls.
9. Sprinkle on avocado toast.
10. Dash it over a bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon. (yum)
11. Season Homemade Popcorn!
12. Sprinkle it over a can of tinned fish, like sardines.

Recipes that use Furikake Seasoning:

• Furikake Guacamole
• Grilled Romaine Salad with Maitake Mushrooms
• Spicy Miso Ramen with Salmon

Hope you give this a try and enjoy!

Happy seasoning,

Sylvia

Watch How to make Furikake | 60-sec video

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