Togarashi, referring to the Japanese word for “chiles,” is a group of table additions, always including chiles, that bring out the clean and simple flavors of Japanese food. It is one of the most popular seasonings in Japan. 

Red chilies were introduced into Japan in the 16th century, originally as a medicine, and this seasoning blend likely followed soon afterward. Yagenbori Nakajima Shoten, an apothecary established in 1625 in old Edo (now Tokyo), claims to have introduced the Togarashi blend. The shop, now one of Japan’s most revered spice stores, still exists in the Asakusa district.

Chile peppers contain capsaicin, a chemical that induces warmth, so you can stick it in your shoe or mitten to keep toes and fingers warm. It is apparently also useful for keeping rice from becoming bug-infested. Capsaicin has also been tested on rats for things like pain relief, cancer cell reduction, diabetes prevention, and weight loss.