Yatsufusa (Yatzy) Chile Pepper

The hot specialty pepper Yatsufusa originated in Japan and is also known as “chilies Japones”. Although Japan uses fewer chiles than other Asian countries, the Yatsufusa pepper is a popular condiment in Japanese cuisine.

The peppers grow in upright clusters of 5-6 at the top of an 18-24” tall multi-branched plant and have a flavor similar to cayenne or Thai peppers.

The young, green peppers are used when mild heat is needed for the dish. The mature peppers are hotter and typically used dried, being ground and used in shichimi togarashi, a popular condiment.