Seaweed: A Superfood with 10 Times More Calcium Than Milk
Seaweed, a type of algae that grows in the ocean, is a versatile ingredient with a long history in Asian cuisines, especially in Japan, Korea, and China. This vegetable grows along coastlines worldwide and is a staple food source for marine life, ranging in color from red and green to dark brown.
Seaweed has been a culinary staple in Asian countries for centuries and is known for its versatility. It can be used in various dishes, from sushi rolls to soups and salads. If you’re looking for a new, exotic addition to your menu, seaweed is a delicious and nutritious option.
Also known as Undaria pinnatifida, this seaweed is a member of the Chigaisoidae family and is widely consumed in Japan and other Asian countries. This unique vegetable is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with trace elements and minerals.
While seaweed may not be the most visually appealing vegetable, its health benefits are remarkable. In recent years, it has been praised as a “smart food” and a beauty and health-promoting dish, even associated with longevity.
Nutritional Powerhouse: Seaweed is rich in nutrients and an excellent source of vitamin B12, essential for healthy blood and nervous system function. It is also a great source of calcium, folate, B vitamins, and magnesium, making it a popular choice for health-conscious individuals.
Weight Loss Aid: Seaweed can help you control your weight as it is high in fiber, keeping you fuller for longer and reducing snacking. Fiber also boosts metabolism and promotes a healthy gut.
Cancer Prevention: Seaweed contains lignans, which have been shown to protect the body from dangerous cancers and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Additionally, seaweed is an excellent food for menopausal women, helping to prevent breast cancer effectively.
Blood Pressure Regulation: Seaweed is rich in calcium and essential minerals but low in sodium, making it effective in stabilizing blood pressure. It is especially beneficial for those with high blood pressure, helping to improve their condition.
Improved Digestion: Seaweed is a good source of fiber, which promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and enhances digestion. Additionally, the alginate in seaweed increases mucus production in the intestinal walls, further improving digestion.
Migraine Relief: Seaweed is rich in magnesium, which helps prevent migraines. If you or a loved one suffers from migraines, including seaweed in your diet is a great option.
Delicious Seaweed Recipes
Seaweed has a distinct and delightful flavor, and when combined with pork liver and tofu, it creates a nutritious and tasty dish. Among the many iron-rich foods, pork liver is an excellent blood booster and a great source of iron. Tofu, on the other hand, is a low-fat, protein-rich food.
Ingredients: Seaweed (Wakame), pork liver, tofu, goji berries, chopped scallions, ginger
Instructions:
– Soaking wakame seaweed is simple; just take a small handful and soak it in cold water. If using hot water, soak for about 30 seconds.
– Alternatively, you can cook wakame directly in a pot. Boil some water, add a small amount of edible alkali, and cook the wakame for about 5 minutes. This method not only softens the wakame but also removes any fishy smell.
– After soaking, rinse the wakame under running water, cut it into small pieces, and set it aside.
– Take a piece of pork liver, rinse it, and cut it into small pieces. Place them in a bowl to remove any unpleasant odors.
– In a separate bowl, combine the liver pieces with a spoonful of flour and half a can of beer. Let it sit for 10 minutes to eliminate any unwanted smells. Rinse the liver thoroughly with water multiple times afterward.
– Drain the liver and place it in a dish. Add a small spoonful of sweet potato starch, a spoonful of cooking wine, and an appropriate amount of scallions and ginger. Marinate for 10 minutes.
– After marinating, separate the scallions and ginger slices and set them aside for later use.
– Take a piece of soft tofu and cut it into small pieces. Soft tofu is preferable to firm tofu for this recipe as it enhances the flavor.
– Chop some scallions and separate the white parts from the green parts. Grate a piece of ginger. Prepare a small handful of goji berries.
– Heat oil in a pan and sauté the scallions and ginger until fragrant. Add the wakame and sauté, then pour in a large bowl of water and bring to a boil.
– Add the tofu, seasoning with salt, chicken essence, and pepper to taste.
– After boiling over high heat, add the liver and continue cooking for 3 minutes. Just before turning off the heat, sprinkle in some goji berries and drizzle with two drops of sesame oil. Serve and enjoy!
Important Notes on Consuming Seaweed
– Consume seaweed in moderation as it has a cooling effect on the body. Excessive consumption may lead to stomach discomfort and even diarrhea or poisoning.
– For optimal health, it is recommended to eat seaweed regularly, 2-3 times a week.
– Do not overcook seaweed as it will become mushy and lose its nutritional value.