Gomasio: this Japanese condiment that replaces salt perfectly!

Used for thousands of years in Japan, gomasio is one of the most popular seasonings in the country. In hot dishes, stuffings, meats, seafood, soups or even salads, this alternative to salt is sure to make your taste buds tingle! Zoom in on gomasio, a superfood that is as delicious as it is healthy.

Etymologically speaking, the word “goma” means “sesame” while the term “shio” means “salt” in Japanese. Therefore, gomasio (or gomashio) simply means a mixture of toasted sesame seeds (95%) and fleur de sel (5%). Used since the dawn of time, this alternative to table salt is a true star of macrobiotic and Ayurvedic cuisine thanks to its many virtues. According to traditional Asian medicine, gomasio can even help you live longer! But even if it doesn’t extend your life expectancy, this Japanese condiment can still help you eat healthier by reducing your sodium intake.

Is gomasio good for your health?

In cooking, gomasio is used as much for its flavor as for its nutritional qualities. Because yes, this mixture of sesame seeds and salt has many benefits! It is rich in calciumin phosphorus, in magnesium and in “good fat”that is, unsaturated fatty acids. This treasure from Japan therefore stimulates your metabolism and protects your cardiovascular system. However, be careful not to consume it every day in large quantities because gomasio is rather caloric and rich in lipids. Nevertheless, it is an ideal condiment for people who suffer from high blood pressure because It allows you to season without exceeding the recommended daily dose of sodium.. Knowing that ANSES recommends not exceeding 5 to 6 g of salt per day…

What does gomasio taste like?

Thanks to the sesame seeds it contains, gomasio has a light roasted hazelnut flavor enhanced by the discreet presence of fleur de sel as a flavor enhancer. In addition, its coarsely ground texture adds crunch to your preparationsincluding omelettes, soups or raw vegetables. However, you should know that there are several varieties of gomasio: there is the traditional gomasio, but also the algomasio And the omegamasio. The first contains algae, thus providing iodine, while the second includes a multitude of other oilseeds such as flax, pumpkin or hemp seeds. Enough to vary the flavors while enhancing your delicious dishes!

How to replace salt with gomasio in cooking?

First of all, you should know that Gomasio is not cooked in order to take full advantage of all its virtues. This is why you should sprinkle it on your preparations always after cooking ! Otherwise in the kitchen, This condiment goes with everything (well almost), like classic salt. It delicately perfumes hot dishes such as meat, fish, vegetables or even pasta. Gomasio enhances soups, broths and gazpachos while going well with many sauces and marinades. In vinaigrette or in a yogurt sauce, it spices up your salads as desired.