Nori is just one example of the many varieties of sea vegetables.
Sea vegetables are a deliciously nutritious aquatic treat that play a critical role in the cooking traditions of many cultures around the world, especially in Asia. Although Americans might think consuming sea vegetables is a strange concept, most have probably already unknowingly taste-tested them in a variety of common products ranging from gelatin to toothpaste. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Agar Agar
A combination of sea vegetables, agar agar is a gelatin that is clear, tasteless and comes in the form of flakes. It provides an alternative means of thickening up a variety of dishes without resorting to the use of chemical- or animal-based gelatin products.
Dulse
Dulse is available in powdered form or as whole, reddish-brown leaves. The vegetable is a good source of potassium and protein, and it has a salty taste and chewy texture. Pan-frying is one example of a cooking method people use to enjoy dulse; this gives it a crispy texture similar to bacon.
Arame
Arame provide a variety of dietary boosters from calcium and potassium to Vitamin A. They come in the form of thin and wiry black shreds, and should be rinsed thoroughly and soaked in warm water prior to cooking. Add them to any number of dishes including quiche or salad.
Nori
This sea vegetable is rich in iodine and Vitamin C, and is one of the more familiar varieties as it's used to make sushi rolls. Nori comes in a range of colors from dark purple to green, and it can be purchased either toasted or untoasted, depending on what you plan to do with it. Aside from its use in sushi, Nori makes for a great condiment to add to a variety of dishes.
Kombu
Kombu is dazzlingly dark purple in color, but it's not just a pretty face; it's also a good source of iron, iodine, calcium and magnesium. Adding a bit of dried kombu to beans can help make them easier to digest. Remember that when cooking with dried kombu, you'll need to add extra cooking liquid as it doubles in volume by soaking up the available fluids.
Sea Palm
Found on America's Pacific coast, this sea vegetable also goes by the name American arame. The term sea palm refers to the vegetable's resemblance to a miniature palm tree. This brownish-green treat is both sweet and salty, and can be enjoyed raw or cooked depending on your textural preference.
Wakame
A tender, grayish-green sea vegetable, wakame is an excellent source of dietary fiber and potassium. It's a versatile product that can be prepared and enjoyed in a variety of ways. For instance, you could simply enjoy the vegetable raw, or you could add it to your favorite soups or stir-fry mixtures.
Tags: dark purple, dried kombu, good source, variety dishes