[Ninben]Irizake, the Traditional, All-Purpose Japanese Seasoning Reimagined as a Dressing

For over 300 years, Ninben has been a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, supporting everyday meals and the country’s culinary culture with its expertly craftedkatsuobushi(dried skipjack tuna flakes) and dashi. Known for making authentic dashi easily accessible, Ninben’s products like their dashi packs and Tsuyu no Moto concentrated soup base have become popular abroad as well. Among its standout offerings is Edo-ressing Irizake, a perfect addition to light summer dishes when appetite wanes in the heat.

Irizakeis a traditional Japanese seasoning believed to have been developed in the Muromachi period (1336–1573), long before the spread of soy sauce in the Edo period (1603–1868). Made from just a few simple ingredients—sake, umeboshi(pickled plum),katsuobushi, and salt—it was once a staple in everyday households. Though soy sauce eventually became the norm,irizakecontinued to be used by professional chefs. In recent years, with growing interest in health-conscious cooking,irizakehas regained popularity for its lower sodium content and its ability to bring out umami through the acidity ofumeboshiand richness ofkatsuobushi. Its versatility also makes it well-suited to a wide range of modern dishes.

Whileirizakecan be made from scratch and adjusted to taste, Ninben developed Edo-ressing Irizake to make it easier to enjoy every day. Made with carefully selected ingredients—including high-gradehonkarebushi, Shimousa soy sauce, Okinawan sea salt, and Kishu Nanko ume (plums)—this dressing has earned praise not only from health-conscious consumers but also from professional chefs who use it across appetizers and main dishes alike.

A truly all-purpose seasoning, Edo-ressing Irizake can be used across Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisines. Since it contains no oil, it’s great for daily use, and also makes a thoughtful, sophisticated gift for friends who love to cook or appreciate healthy eating.

＊Prices as of time of writing.

■Ninben
Official website
https://www.ninben.jp/

Online store (Japan)
https://shop.ninben.co.jp/