Goma Shio

Goma Shio, or Gomashio, is a popular Japanese seasoning consisting of salt, black sesame seeds with subtle, nutty notes. Sometimes, it’s referred to as sesame salt.

Like salt in the Western World, the Japanese use Gomashio to season food such as plain rice or onigiri (rice balls). The combination of sesame seeds and the salt in Goma Shio creates a nicely balanced flavour profile, with the nuttiness of the sesame seeds complementing the saltiness well. Because sesame seeds are a rich source of vitamins, minerals and healthy fans, Goma Shio can also be considered quite a nutritious seasoning option!

Within the Japanese language, ‘Goma Shio’ is used to describe hair that is both grey and black like the idiom salt and pepper hair. This blend works with rice, salads and vegetables or used as a finishing salt. Goma Shio can also be used as a finishing touch sprinkled over noodles, or for soups, stews, grilled dishes and even as a dipping seasoning for tempura or other fried foods.

Includes