Flax Seed Furikake

A simple Japanese rice seasoning using healthy ingredients like flax seed meal, sesame seeds, and kelp powder.

I know some of you might be thinking “Furi-what now?”. I’ll admit, furikake is not the most mainstream condiment out there. It is, however, one of my personal favorites, and something that I’ve loved the heck out of since my Japanese restaurant days.

Furikake is basically a topping for rice (and also sometimes noodles or other dishes). It’s often made from sesame seeds and seaweed but there are lots of different varieties and flavors using everything from garlic to dried egg to spice things up.

Depending on the selection of Japanese foods at your grocery store you may be able to find a jar during a normal grocery trip. Or, if your city has an Asian market (we have some GREAT ones in Austin) than you could even find several types of furikake to try out.

I’ve been meaning to make my own furikake for some time now, and was finally inspired to take the plunge while brainstorming ways to sneak more omega into my diet. Ground flaxseed blends into furikake quite well – giving the seasoning a mild nutty flavor that works really well with sesame and seaweed.

You can shake this lovely stuff all over rice, quinoa, noodles, or roasted vegetables to add a dash of salty, umami flavor.

My personal favorite way to enjoy furikake is simple. I start with a small bowl of freshly steamed rice, squirt a little soy sauce or liquid amino on top, then sprinkle the bowl liberally with furikake. This makes an amazing side or a wholesome snack – the perfect comfort food for anyone who loves rice as much as I do.

Flax Seed Furikake
Makes about 1/2 cup

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup white sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon kelp granules
• 1 tablespoon ground flax seeds

Directions

1. Combine the sesame seeds and flax seeds in a small skillet and toast over medium heat. Make sure to continuously move the ingredients in the skillet by gently shaking the pan as they toast. When you start to smell the sesame they are finished. Immediately remove the seeds from the pan into a small mixing bowl.
2. Add the kelp granules and mix well.
3. Allow the mixture to cool completely before transferring it to a small jar or shaker with an airtight lid.