Self Magazine: 11 Ways to Cook With Seaweed

How To Cook With Seaweed, The Latest It Ingredient

The superfood of the sea is more versatile than you’d think.

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Susanna Liang / via divinehealthyfood.com

By Alexa Tucker | February 19, 2016 | Originally posted to Self.com

Seaweed is having a moment right now and we’re seeing the ingredient pop up in dishes everywhere. Here’s the deal: seaweed is low in calories and fat, but it’s also crazy rich in nutrients. It’s got tons of A, C, E, K and B vitamins, as well as serious mineral power—iodine, selenium, calcium and iron are all found in the stuff. It’s also full of fiber, so it’ll help keep you full.

“Two tablespoons of seaweed contains four calories, and packs a punch of flavor,” say Tanya Zuckerbrot, M.S., R.D., founder of F-Factor Nutrition. This anti-inflammatory ingredient is “technically classified as marine algae,” explains Zuckerbrot, “[but] seaweed acts as a vegetable in our diets because it is a low-calorie, fibrous, nutrient-dense food.”

There are over 30 types of seaweed, including nori, kelp, and dulse, but don’t let the variety scare you away. Many forms of seaweed are sold as dried goods and you can find different varieties including dried in sheets, in spice form, or fresh, explains Zuckerbrot.

Not only is seaweed a staple in sushi, but it’s also about to become your new favorite ingredient in everything from soups to salads (even breakfast foods are getting the sea green treatment). You can add seaweed to endless dishes, but if you need a little inspiration, take it from these 11 bloggers’ recipes.