How to Make Yuzu Kosho

Yuzu kosho is a sour, salty, and citrusy Japanese condiment. I first encountered it on top of nigiri sushi. But it’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in many applications like salad dressing and even margaritas.

Yuzu kosho is easy to find online and at Japanese grocers. But it’s not hard to make at home either.

Armed with some fresh yuzu and serrano, I used a recipe from Kiel Kleeburg for my first attempt. And the results didn’t disappoint.

Yuzu Kosho Recipe

This recipe takes about 20-40 minutes to make. And it will need seven to ten days to ferment. After that, it lasts a long time in the fridge.

@thejapanesebar

Yuzu Kosho – one of my favorite Japanese condiments. All you need to make it is yuzu, chili, and salt. Takes about 20-30 minutes. #yuzu #yuzukosho #japanesefood #japaneserecipe #howtorecipe

♬ original sound – Brad Smith

Ingredients

Yuzu citrus

Chili pepper (4-8% of weight of yuzu)

Salt (6-8% of weight of yuzu plus chili)

Citrus juice

Steps to Make Yuzu Kosho

1. Peel clean yuzu and cut away white pith.
2. Weight the yuzu peel.
3. Dice or blend peel into a rough paste.
4. Add 4-8% chili pepper by weight of yuzu peel.
5. Mix with yuzu and blend into a fine paste.
6. Weight the blend of yuzu and pepper.
7. Add 6-8% salt to the total weight of the mixture.
8. Mix thoroughly.
9. Place into a clean, sanitized jar and add just enough yuzu juice to cover.
10. Mix thoroughly.
11. Cover and store in a cool, dry place for 7-10 days.
12. Check daily: watch for mold growth which will spoil the batch. Keep the jar clean, especially where the lid and jar connect.
13. Once you’re happy with the flavor, store it in the refrigerator.
14. Your yuzu kosho should last six months to a year.

About Yuzu

Yuzu is a citrus variety from Japan. It has an extremely aromatic peel, and a floral scent, and tastes like a combination of pink grapefruit, Meyer lemon, and mandarin orange.

If you don’t have yuzu on hand, I recommend a combo of these fruits.

Sudachi is arguably the most suitable substitute. However, outside of Japan, it’s even harder to find.

Buy Yuzu Kosho Online

Yuzu kosho takes some time to ferment. So if you’re in a hurry or intimidated by the process, check out the Yamasan yuzu kosho from Amazon below. It’s among the best authentic brands available.

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