Japanese-Style Seasoning Salt
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
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.
In this article:
Continue reading below
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

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.