Kelp: How it’s Used in Asian Cuisine

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Kelps are large brown algae seaweeds that make up the order Laminariales. There are about 30 different genera. Despite its appearance, kelp is not a plant since it is not made of more than one clearly differentiated tissue; it is a heterokont. Through the 19th century, the word “kelp” was closely associated with seaweeds that could be burned to obtain soda ash (primarily sodium carbonate). The seaweeds used included species from both the orders Laminariales and Fucales. The word “kelp” was also used directly to refer to these processed ashes.

Kelp is a versatile ingredient in Asian cuisine. It’s known for its umami flavor and can be used in soups, stews, and many other dishes. It’s a type of seaweed that’s found in the ocean and has blades and leaves like a plant but flows in the water like a vegetable.

In this article, I’ll get you up to speed on how to use it and what to look for when buying.

What is kelp

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Getting to Know Kelp: A Versatile Ingredient in Asian Cuisine

Favorite Asian Recipes
Favorite Asian Recipes

Kelp is a type of seaweed that is commonly found in the ocean. It is a type of brown algae that consists of blades or leaves that flow with the water. Kelp is also known as kombu in Japanese cuisine and is a main ingredient in many dishes. It is a type of vegetable that is commonly used in Asian cuisine and is also known for its impressive health benefits.

Why is Kelp Important in Asian Cuisine?

Kelp is a key ingredient in many Japanese dishes and is commonly used to add natural iodine to food. It is also a helpful tool in the kitchen, as it can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. Kelp is commonly used in soups and stocks, and is also a great substitute for salt. It is a low calorie food that is high in nutrients and is a great addition to any dish.

How to Prepare Kelp

Preparing kelp is easy and can be done in a few simple steps:

  • If using dried kelp, soak it in water for a few minutes until it becomes soft.
  • Use a sharp knife or a kelp scraping tool to remove any dirt or impurities from the surface of the kelp.
  • Slice the kelp into small pieces or use it whole, depending on the dish you are making.
  • Add the kelp to your dish and enjoy!

What Does Kelp Taste Like?

Kelp has a sweet and slightly salty flavor, with a hint of umami. It is similar in flavor to other seaweeds, such as wakame. Judging the flavor of kelp is important, as it can add a lot of depth to a dish.

Where to Find Kelp

Kelp can be found in many Asian grocery stores, as well as online. It is commonly sold in dried or fresh form, and can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a year. Having kelp in your kitchen arsenal is always handy, as it can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes.

Exploring the Unique Taste of Kelp in Asian Cuisine

Kelp, also known as seaweed or marine algae, is a type of underwater aquatic plant that grows in rocky, northern waters around the world. There are many different species of kelp, each with its own unique taste and texture. However, the primary taste elements of kelp are fishy, salty, and umami.

How Kelp Tastes Compared to Other Ingredients

Kelp has a taste that is similar to other seafood ingredients, but it is also unique in its own way. When compared to other types of seaweed, kelp has a more powerful taste due to its high sodium content. However, compared to fish, kelp has a milder taste.

The Role of Kelp in Asian Cuisine

Kelp is a commonly used ingredient in Japanese cuisine, where it is mainly used to produce dashi, a type of stock that is essential in making many Japanese dishes. Kelp is also used in a variety of other ways in Asian cuisine, such as:

  • Simmered in soups and stews
  • Dried into strips and used as a garnish
  • Ground into a powder and used as a seasoning
  • Peeled and eaten raw as a snack

Kelp plays an important role in Asian cuisine because of its unique taste and ability to add umami flavor to dishes.

The Health Benefits of Kelp

Kelp is a super food that is packed with essential nutrients and minerals. According to research published in July 2018, kelp is composed of a variety of important elements, including:

  • Iodine
  • Calcium
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Potassium

Kelp also contains a patent nutrient called fucoxanthin, which has been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Kelp in Asian Cuisine: A Culinary Journey

Looking for a sweet and sour salad that’s easy to make? Try the Chinese kelp salad! Here’s how to make it:

  • Ingredients: 200g fresh kelp, 2 scallions, 2 garlic cloves, 1 red chili pepper, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp black vinegar, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 5 mins
  • Total Time: 15 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 70 kcal

Instructions:

  1. Wash the kelp in cold water a few times to remove any sand or dirt. Cut the kelp into thin, small pieces and transfer to a pot of boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the kelp is soft.
  2. Remove the kelp from the pot and transfer to a bowl of cold water. Wash the kelp a few times to remove any excess salt.
  3. Finely chop the scallions, garlic, and chili pepper. Mix the soy sauce, black vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and salt in a separate bowl.
  4. Heat up some oil in a pan and add the chopped scallions, garlic, and chili pepper. Stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour the soy sauce mixture into the pan and mix well. Add the kelp and stir-fry for another minute.
  6. Remove from heat and let it cool down. Serve cold as a main course or a side dish.

Notes:

  • This recipe was tried and tested by Elaine in December 2020. It was published and updated in December 2021 with extra notes and comments.
  • You can also add some bonito flakes or extra chili peppers for a more salty or hot flavor.

Japanese Kelp Stock

Kelp is a staple ingredient in Japanese cuisine, especially in making dashi stock. Here’s an easy recipe to make your own kelp stock:

  • Ingredients: 1 large piece of dried kelp (about 20g), 4 cups of water
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 15 mins
  • Servings: 4

Instructions:

  1. Wipe the kelp with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust. Cut the kelp into small pieces.
  2. Place the kelp and water in a pot and let it soak for 30 minutes.
  3. Heat up the pot on medium heat and bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, remove the kelp from the pot.
  4. Let the stock simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it turns light brown.
  5. Remove from heat and strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
  6. Use the kelp stock as a base for soups, stews, or sauces.

Notes:

  • You can also add some dried bonito flakes to the stock for a more umami flavor.
  • Kelp stock can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thai Kelp Roll

Kelp can also be used as a substitute for rice paper in making fresh rolls. Here’s a recipe for a Thai-inspired kelp roll:

  • Ingredients: 4 sheets of dried kelp, 1 cup of shredded vegetable (carrots, cucumber, lettuce), 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts, 1/4 cup of chopped scallions, 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, 1 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tbsp of lime juice, 1 tsp of chili flakes, 1 tsp of sugar
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Total Time: 15 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 150 kcal

Instructions:

  1. Soak the kelp sheets in warm water for a few minutes until they become soft and pliable.
  2. Place the shredded vegetables, chopped peanuts, scallions, and cilantro in a bowl and mix well.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce, lime juice, chili flakes, and sugar to make the dipping sauce.
  4. Place a sheet of kelp on a flat surface and add a spoonful of the vegetable mixture on top.
  5. Roll the kelp tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go.
  6. Repeat with the remaining kelp sheets and filling.
  7. Serve the kelp rolls with the dipping sauce on the side.

Notes:

  • You can also add some cooked shrimp or tofu to the filling for extra protein.
  • Kelp rolls are a great appetizer or snack that’s low in carbs and high in fiber.

Get Creative in the Kitchen: Ways to Cook with Kelp

  • Kelp can be found fresh, dried, or in a powdered form
  • If using dried kelp, soak it in water overnight and wash it several times to get rid of sand and slimy texture
  • Fresh kelp needs to be washed and prepared before cooking
  • Kelp can be individually wrapped in foam trays and kept in the fridge for up to a week

Cooking with Kelp

  • Kelp can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, from soups to salads to stir-fries
  • Kelp ribbons make an excellent addition to pasta dishes, such as linguine con vongole
  • Kelp can be paired with other marine ingredients, such as oysters, to enhance its flavor
  • Kelp can also be used as a natural seasoning in place of salt
  • Kelp supplements and herbal remedies are increasing in popularity due to their nutritional yields

Why Kelp is a Superfood for Your Health

Kelp is a type of seaweed that grows underwater in the ocean. It is a natural and nutrient-rich food that is a staple in Asian cuisine. Kelp is known for its incredible iodine content, which is required by the body to produce thyroid hormones. But that’s not all- kelp is also rich in other nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and magnesium. Here are some of the benefits of adding kelp to your diet:

  • Kelp is a great source of iodine, which is required by the body to produce thyroid hormones. These hormones help regulate the body’s metabolism, which can help prevent weight gain and promote weight loss.
  • Kelp is rich in antioxidants, which can help prevent damage to the body’s cells and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
  • Kelp is a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied after meals. This can help prevent overeating and promote weight loss.
  • Kelp is a low-calorie food that is high in nutrients, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

How Kelp Compares to Other Types of Seaweed

Kelp is just one type of seaweed that is used in Asian cuisine. There are thousands of species of seaweed, each with its own unique flavor and nutrient content. Here’s how kelp compares to other popular types of seaweed:

  • Nori: Nori is a type of seaweed that is typically used to make sushi. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and is known for its high protein content.
  • Wakame: Wakame is a type of seaweed that is often used in miso soup. It has a slightly sweet and salty flavor and is rich in calcium and iron.
  • Dulse: Dulse is a type of red seaweed that is often used as a topping for dishes like salads and soups. It has a slightly salty and smoky flavor and is rich in protein and iron.

Compared to these other types of seaweed, kelp is a superfood because it contains a wide range of nutrients and has a great impact on marine life.

How to Add Kelp to Your Diet

If you’re new to kelp, you may be wondering how to incorporate it into your diet. Here are some tips:

  • Use kelp in place of noodles in dishes like stir-fries and soups.
  • Add dried kelp flakes to salads, soups, and stews for a boost of flavor and nutrients.
  • Use kelp to make a seaweed salad by tacking it with other leafy greens and adding a slightly sweet dressing.
  • Top your favorite dishes with kelp powder for added nutrients.

Kelp is a versatile and healthy food that can be used in a variety of dishes. So why not give it a try and see how it can benefit your health?

Conclusion

So, that’s how kelp is used in Asian cuisine. It’s a versatile ingredient and a great way to add natural iodine to your diet. Plus, it has lots of health benefits. 

So, don’t be afraid to explore the world of kelp and discover its deliciousness.

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Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.