noun
real wasabi; true Japanese wasabi
Refers to genuine wasabi (Wasabia japonica), as opposed to the more common horseradish-based substitute often labeled 'wasabi' in the West. Used especially in culinary contexts to emphasize authenticity.
この寿司屋では本わさびを使っている。
This sushi restaurant uses real wasabi.
本わさびと西洋わさびは風味が違う。
Real wasabi and Western horseradish have different flavors.
Compound of 本 (hon, 'true' or 'real') and わさび (wasabi, the Japanese horseradish plant). The prefix 本- is commonly used to distinguish genuine native varieties from foreign or substitute versions.