Tokyo Togarashi Fusion

Background and History

The art of Japanese cooking is a harmonious blend of aesthetics, flavors, and history. Tokyo Togarashi Fusion is a modern twist on traditional dishes, incorporating the famous Togarashi spice blend, which is a staple in Japanese seasoning. "Shichimi Togarashi" or "seven-flavor chili pepper" dates back to the 17th century as a versatile seasoning, balancing heat from chili peppers with aromas of seaweed, sesame, and citrus.

Tokyo, as a vibrant and eclectic city, has always embraced fusion techniques. Its culinary scene offers a modern reinterpretation of classic recipes. The Tokyo Togarashi Fusion dish is an embodiment of such creativity. We leverage traditional ingredients and techniques, presenting a dish that encapsulates the spirit of Tokyo in every bite.

Ingredients

• Salmon - 2 fillets
• Togarashi - 2 tablespoons
• Soy Sauce - 1/4 cup
• Mirin - 2 tablespoons
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Rice Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Honey - 1 tablespoon
• Sesame Oil - 1 tablespoon
• Seaweed (Nori sheets) - chopped, for garnish
• Sesame Seeds - 2 teaspoons, toasted
• Salt - to taste
• Spring Onions - 2 stalks, sliced for garnish

Preparation

Begin by preparing the marinade for the salmon. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and honey. Mix well to dissolve the honey thoroughly. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over, and let them sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

While the salmon marinates, prepare the garnish. Chop the seaweed (nori) into thin strips and toast the sesame seeds gently in a pan until golden.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Salmon

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove the marinated salmon from the refrigerator and discard the excess marinade.
3. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels.
4. Rub both sides of the salmon generously with Togarashi seasoning.
5. Heat sesame oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
6. Sear the salmon fillets, skin side down, for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, depending on thickness, until cooked to your preference. Use a cooking timer to ensure precise timing.

Finishing Touches

1. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
2. Sprinkle the seaweed and toasted sesame seeds over the fillets.
3. Garnish with chopped spring onions for added freshness.

How to Enjoy

Serve the Tokyo Togarashi Fusion dish with a side of steamed rice or a fresh vegetable salad to complement the flavors. The bold seasoning from the Togarashi melds beautifully with the succulent salmon, offering a delightful mix of fiery spice and invigorating zest. Pair with a chilled sake or a light Japanese beer to enhance your dining experience. Enjoy your meal as you would a classic Tokyo dish, savoring the bold, rich tones of its modern culinary landscape.