Togarashi substitutes
Togarashi substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Shichimi togarashi
Same amount as the togarashi
Similar Japanese spice blend with seven ingredients including chilies and sesame.
The best substitutes for togarashi are shichimi togarashi, gochugaru, or red pepper flakes.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- ramen
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of togarashi | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shichimi togarashiramen | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Gochugaruramen | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Red pepper flakesramen | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Cayenne pepperramen | 1 part for every 2 partsUse half the amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 5 | Chili powderramen | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Shichimi togarashi
similar taste and texture
Similar Japanese spice blend with seven ingredients including chilies and sesame.
- Best for
- ramen, udon, tempura, grilled meats
Very similar to togarashi in flavor and uses.
Gochugaru
different taste, similar texture
Korean chili powder with similar heat and flavor profile.
- Best for
- ramen, udon, tempura, grilled meats
Different flavor profile but similar heat and uses.
Red pepper flakes
different taste and texture
Crushed dried chilies with similar heat and flavor base.
- Best for
- ramen, udon, tempura, grilled meats
May need additional sesame seeds and other spices.
Cayenne pepper
different taste and texture
Ground chili pepper with similar heat and flavor base.
- Best for
- ramen, udon, tempura, grilled meats
Much hotter than togarashi, use sparingly.
Chili powder
different taste, similar texture
Spice blend with similar heat and flavor profile.
- Best for
- ramen, udon, tempura, grilled meats
May need additional sesame seeds and other spices.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use shichimi togarashi instead of togarashi?
Yes, shichimi togarashi is very similar to togarashi and can be used as a substitute. It has a similar flavor profile and heat level, making it good for the same applications.
What's the difference between togarashi and gochugaru?
Togarashi is a Japanese spice blend with chilies, sesame seeds, and other seasonings, while gochugaru is a Korean chili powder made from ground red peppers. Both have similar heat levels but different flavor profiles.
Can I make togarashi at home?
Yes, you can make togarashi at home by grinding dried chilies with sesame seeds, orange peel, and other spices. The exact recipe varies, but it typically includes these base ingredients.
How hot is togarashi?
Togarashi is considered medium-hot on the Scoville scale, typically ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 Scoville heat units. It's hotter than mild spices but not as hot as very spicy ones like cayenne pepper.
Tips for substituting togarashi
7 tips- Togarashi is best when used as a finishing spice rather than during cooking
- Store togarashi in an airtight container away from light and heat
- Togarashi pairs well with ramen, udon, tempura, and grilled meats
- For milder heat, use less togarashi or mix with other spices
- Togarashi can be used in both Japanese and fusion dishes
- Add togarashi gradually to avoid overpowering other flavors
- Togarashi works well in marinades, dressings, and sauces