WHAT IS WAKAME ? SEA VEGETABLE OR SEAWEED ! HEALTH BENEFITS, USES OF WAKAME ! WAKAME AND CUCUMBER SALAD RECIPE !

 WHAT IS WAKAME ? SEA MUSTARD :

Wakame is a type of edible seaweed that has been

cultivated in Japan and Korea for centuries. It is also known as “sea mustard” because of its resemblance to mustard greens when cooked. Wakame has a deep green color, a mild flavor, and a crunchy texture.

 It is widely used in Asian cuisines, especially in soups, salads, and snacks, but also as a seasoning.

Wakame is low in calories but high in several nutrients that are essential for health. It is a good source of iodine, manganese, folate, magnesium, calcium, vitamins A, C, E and K, iron, copper and phosphorus. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.

             HEALTH BENEFITS OF WAKAME :

Wakame is rich in iodine, which is an essential mineral for the production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate growth, metabolism, protein synthesis and cell repair. Iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism, a condition that can lead to weight gain, fatigue, hair loss and dry skin.

Wakame contains substances that can help lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and inhibiting the enzyme that constricts them. High blood pressure can increase the strain on the heart and damage the blood vessels, leading to heart disease. 

Wakame also contains antioxidants that can protect the blood vessels from oxidative stress and inflammation.

 Wakame can help promote weight loss by

increasing the feeling of fullness and reducing the absorption of fat and sugar in the intestines. Wakame also contains fucoxanthin, a pigment that can boost the metabolism and prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver.

 Wakame can help improve skin health by providing hydration, nourishment and protection. Wakame contains vitamins A, C and E that can help maintain skin elasticity, collagen production and wound healing. 

Wakame also contains antioxidants that can prevent skin damage from UV rays and environmental pollutants.

Wakame can help boost immunity by stimulating the production of white blood cells and antibodies that fight against infections and diseases. Wakame also contains polysaccharides that can modulate the immune system and enhance its response to foreign invaders.

Wakame can be found in dried or salted forms in most Asian markets or online stores. Dried wakame needs to be soaked in warm water for a few minutes before using it. 

Salted wakame needs to be rinsed well to remove excess salt. Wakame can be added to soups, salads, stir-fries, sushi rolls or onigiri. It can also be chopped, seasoned and served as a salad on its own or with other ingredients.

Some of the common dishes that use wakame are:

    MISO SOUP :

A traditional Japanese soup made with dash (a

broth of seaweed and fish), miso (a fermented soybean paste), tofu and scallions. Wakame is often added as a garnish to provide extra flavor and texture.

   SEAWEED SALAD :

A refreshing salad made with rehydrated or blanched wakame, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar and sesame seeds. It can be served cold or at room temperature.

   GOMA WAKAME :

 A popular Japanese snack made with chopped wakame mixed with sesame seeds, sugar and vinegar. It has a sweet and sour taste and a crunchy texture.

    HIJIKI NO NIMONO :

 

A Japanese side dish made with hijiki (another type of seaweed), carrots, soybeans, sugar, soy sauce and mirin (a sweet rice wine). Wakame can be added to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Wakame is generally safe to consume for most people. However, some precautions should be taken:

 Wakame contains high amounts of iodine, which

can be beneficial for thyroid health but harmful if consumed in excess. Too much iodine can cause hyperthyroidism, a condition that can lead to anxiety, insomnia, palpitations and weight loss. 

The recommended daily intake of iodine for adults is 150 mcg per day. One gram of dried wakame contains about 42 mcg of iodine, so it is advisable to limit the intake of wakame to no more than 3 grams per day.

Some people may be allergic to wakame or other seaweeds. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, hives, rash, difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis. 

If you have a history of seafood or iodine allergy, consult your doctor before eating wakame.

Wakame may be contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides or radioactive substances that can pose health risks.

 It is important to buy wakame from reputable

sources and check the labels for any warnings or certifications. You can also soak wakame in water for a few hours and discard the water to reduce the potential contaminants.

Wakame is a nutritious and delicious sea vegetable that can offer many health benefits. It can be used in various dishes to add flavor, texture and color. 

Wakame is low in calories but high in several nutrients, especially iodine. However, it should be consumed in moderation and with caution to avoid any adverse effects. Wakame is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the sea and the benefits of seaweed.

    WAKAME AND CUCUMBER SALAD RECIPE :

This is a refreshing and crunchy salad that uses

dried wakame seaweed, rice vinegar, lime juice, miso paste, ginger, honey, vegetable oil, sesame oil, salt, cucumber, and scallions. 

      HERE IS THE RECIPE :

Soak the dried wakame seaweed in warm water for about 15 minutes, or until it is soft and plump. Drain well and squeeze out the excess water. Cut into bite-sized pieces if needed.

In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, miso paste, ginger, honey, vegetable oil, sesame oil, and salt until well combined. This is the dressing for the salad.

Cut the cucumber into thin slices and chop the scallions. In a large bowl, toss the cucumber, scallions, and wakame seaweed with the dressing until well coated.

Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving.

Enjoy your wakame and cucumber salad! 

IT'S CALLED HERBS TREAT AND TASTE: