Edible seaweed is algae that can be eaten or used in the preparation of food. Primarily marine seaweed, the green, red, and brown varieties have been a steady part of diets in China, Japan, and Korea since the beginning of recorded history. It has also been a common consumable in coastal and northern European countries. Edible seaweed has been gaining popularity in the US as a “superfood,” a food that is considered to have health benefits.
Seaweed is packed with naturally occurring minerals, and is a pure energy food. For persons concerned with toxins and additives in food, seaweed sits at the very bottom of the food chain, and is one of the purest foods. Raw, fresh, dried, in sheets or flakes, are all ways to eat seaweed, and using it can add an amazing layer of taste to your cooking and food prep.
Of all the great ways to eat seaweed, one of the most convenient ways is to use seaweed as a substitute or addition to other greens in a fresh chilled salad. Take dried seaweed and reconstitute by soaking in water. Toss with 1 tablespoon each of miso, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, with a teaspoon each of sesame seeds and sesame oil. Add strips of chili peppers for extra kick. Asian grocers and many specialty grocery stores regularly have ready-made seaweed salad in their deli departments.
For an ultra tasty spread, whip up some seaweed tapenade. Using dry seaweed flakes as a base, add diced shallots, capers, pitted olives, lemon zest, and olive oil to your taste. Mix together manually or in a mini Cuisinart, depending on your preference in consistency. Spread on toast or crackers as an appetizer, or stir into pasta for a healthy, flavorful meal.
Nori is dried or toasted red algae that has been formed into sheets or flaked, and is most commonly found in sushi rolls. Several varieties are available, including plain, teriyaki, salted, or with sesame. Use flakes to accent a salad, soup, or stew; sheets can be eaten by themselves as a snack, or roll them in your spring or egg rolls to add crunch.
Images via Vegan Feast Catering, preetamrai
