If you’ve ever snuck a snack of seaweed when no one was looking, you’ll understand the allure of its crispy, oceanic flavor. I’ve been a fan of Chinese Seaweed Salad since my teenage years, preferring its salty crunch over sweets like M&Ms any day. While many people know seaweed best as the Nori wrapped around sushi, there’s a whole world of seaweed varieties to explore, each with its own unique taste and texture.
What is Kombu?
Konbu is edible kelp mostly from the family Laminariaceae and is widely eaten in East Asia.
WIKIPEDIA.ORG
Today, we’re focusing on Kombu – a type of seaweed that plays a starring role in our Chinese Seaweed Salad. Available in most Asian grocery stores, Kombu typically comes dehydrated, waiting to be rehydrated and transformed into something delicious. This recipe takes you through the simple steps of preparing Kombu, from soaking to slicing, and combines it with a homemade spicy dressing that’s sure to kick your taste buds into high gear.
Forget the sugar-laden dressings typical of many seaweed salads. Here, we’re adding natural sweetness with shredded carrots, enhancing both the flavor and the visual appeal with their vibrant color. Tossed with cilantro and a zesty mix of chili oil, sesame oil, and tahini, this salad is not just a side dish – it’s a showstopper.
Chef’s Notes – Chinese Seaweed Salad
- Consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Pair this salad with grilled fish or tofu for a satisfying meal.
- Try different seaweed varieties to explore diverse flavors and textures.
- Ideal for healthy eating, vegan, or vegetarian diets.
- Perfect for weekday meals or as a refreshing side dish for summer gatherings.
Additional Notes
- This Spicy Kombu Seaweed Salad offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, combining the umami richness of seaweed with the freshness of carrots and cilantro.
- The dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients and health benefits from the seaweed and vegetables.
- To enhance this salad, you can add your favorite nuts for extra crunch or serve it alongside grilled fish or tofu for a balanced meal.
- This salad is perfect for light lunches, picnics, or as a side dish for Asian-inspired meals. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a day or two, maintaining their flavors and textures well.
Spicy Kombu Seaweed Salad
Dive into the refreshing crunch of our Spicy Kombu Seaweed Salad! This vibrant dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a homemade spicy dressing, offering a healthy, low-calorie treat that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the eyes. Perfect for those who love a touch of heat with their greens!
4
servings15
minutes1
minute120
kcal16
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Seaweed Preparation
2 ounces dried Kombu seaweed
6 cups water for blanching
- Salad Components
1 medium carrot, finely shredded
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- Dressing
1/4 cup homemade spice broth
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons homemade chili oil
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon tahini paste
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Alternative Ingredients
Replace tahini with peanut butter for a nuttier flavor.
Use soy sauce instead of salt for an umami boost.
Substitute chili oil with hot sauce for a different type of heat.
Directions
- Soak the dried Kombu seaweed in warm water for about 10 minutes until it expands. Rinse thoroughly and slice into thin strips.
- Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Submerge the seaweed strips in boiling water for 1 minute to cleanse and soften them. Immediately rinse under cold water to halt cooking and maintain crispness.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched seaweed, shredded carrot, and chopped cilantro.
- Whisk together spice broth, salt, chili oil, sesame oil, and tahini in a separate bowl until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the seaweed mixture and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving chilled.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- saucepan with lid
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- colander
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 120kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 2500IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
FAQ – Chinese Seaweed Salad
What is Kombu and where can I find it?
Kombu is a type of edible seaweed, commonly used in East Asian cuisine. It is known for its deep flavor, which adds a savory umami component to dishes. You can find dried Kombu at most Asian grocery stores or online specialty food retailers.
How do I prepare dried Kombu for cooking?
To prepare dried Kombu, start by soaking it in warm water for about 10 minutes, allowing it to rehydrate and swell. After soaking, rinse the Kombu thoroughly to remove any grit or impurities. Finally, cut it into your desired shape and size for your recipe.
Is this seaweed salad vegan?
Yes, this Chinese Seaweed Salad recipe is vegan. It uses plant-based ingredients like seaweed, carrots, cilantro, and a dressing made from chili oil, sesame oil, and tahini.
What are the health benefits of eating Kombu?
Kombu is rich in minerals like iodine, which is essential for thyroid function. It also contains various vitamins and antioxidants, which can help support overall health. Additionally, Kombu is low in calories, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. The Washington Post has a post here for your further reading on the health benefits.
Are there any alternatives to tahini in the dressing?
If tahini isn’t available or you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute it with other nut or seed butters like almond butter or sunflower seed butter. These will still provide a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the dressing.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! For a heartier meal, feel free to add cooked tofu, tempeh, or even shredded chicken if you are not adhering to a vegan diet. These proteins complement the flavors of the salad and make it more filling.
