Guest post from Maria Finn, author of “TheWhole Fish”
Photo credit to Marla Aufmuth
Strewn along beaches in tangled clumps, seaweed tells the fractal tales of tides. Anchored in the water, they are an underwater melody.These algae are not just beautiful but also vital to the oceans well being; they are the base of the oceans food web and sea creatures need them for sustenance and protection. Its also the ultimate super food for us.
Seaweed is naturally high in many vitamins and anti-oxidants and rich in magnesium, calcium and iron. It has iodine and omega 3s in spades. In fact, its one of the most nutritious things you can eat. Recent studies show that it even helps with weight loss.Scientists found a compound in common seaweed could stop the body absorbing fat. Another recentstudy found women who eat seaweed while pregnant, give birth to better future readers.
These saline vegetables have fertilized crops, been used as a growing medium, and saved populations from disease and hunger. Yet have been very under-utilized. But now they are coming into their own. Some of the most interesting chefs around are highlighting them on their menus, and using them for everything from cocktails to appetizers, salads, breads and main courses.Seaweed is being touted as the new kale. People are finding it a delicious way to make creative dishes with an added umami or depth.
Some easy ways to use it are creating a stir-fry with sliced seaweed, fresh ginger and sesame oil. For a delicious dashi broth make a simple combination of kombu, bonita flakes and shiitake mushrooms. Use this broth as a base for soups, and braise vegetables or seafood with it. If you ferment, add seaweed to your kimchi or sauerkraut. Mix it with lentils for a veggie burger and put it on a grill. You can make a pesto from seaweed to toss with soba noodles or use as a sauce for squash. On the British Isles, its used in breads, like lavar and some seaweeds creates the binding agent for puddings. Also, its pretty amazing mixed with butter. Let them sit together in the refrigerator, and a savory umami flavor infuses through it. Use it to top roasted vegetables or smear it on bread.
So eat your way all the way down the food web, and harvest or buy the sea vegetables swaying in the current. All you need is a low tide and sense of adventure.
