Daikon Radish (Raphanus sativus var. longipinnatus), also known as 大根 (literally "big root") in Japanese, is a mild-flavored winter radish renowned for its long, white, napiform root and fast-growing leaves. Originally native to East Asia, particularly in Japan and China, daikon has become a popular vegetable across Asia and internationally. Its unique, mild taste and versatility in cooking make it a staple in various cuisines, especially in Japan, South Asia, and beyond.
In Japanese cuisine, daikon is used in many different forms, including pickled varieties like takuan and bettarazuke, which are commonly served with rice or as side dishes. The root is often served raw, thinly sliced in salads, or as tsuma (つま), a delicate garnish typically found accompanying sashimi. One of the most common ways to enjoy daikon is as daikon-oroshi (大根おろし), where the root is grated and used as a fresh garnish, often mixed with ponzu sauce, a tangy blend of soy sauce and citrus juice. For a spicier twist, the grated daikon can be combined with chili pepper to create momiji-oroshi (もみじおろし), a fiery, autumn-leaf-red dish.
Beyond fresh preparations, daikon also shines in simmered dishes such as oden, a popular Japanese hot pot, where it soaks up the rich, flavorful broth. Another traditional method of preserving daikon is to shred and dry it, producing kiriboshi-daikon (切干大根), a dried version commonly used in soups and stews. Daikon sprouts, called kaiware-daikon (貝割れ大根), are often used in salads or as a garnish for sushi and sashimi, adding a peppery crunch.
The leaves of the daikon plant, although somewhat thorny when raw, are also edible and enjoyed in various dishes. After pickling, stir-frying, or other softening methods, daikon greens are a delicious and nutritious addition to soups and stir-fries.
These 500+ heirloom, non-GMO daikon radish seeds offer the opportunity to grow this versatile, fast-growing vegetable in your own garden. Whether you're looking to harvest the root for fresh salads, soups, or pickles, or to use the leaves in creative dishes, daikon is an essential and rewarding vegetable to cultivate.