The correct cleaning method for seaweed

The correct cleaning method for seaweed mainly includes five steps: rapid rinsing, soaking to remove sand, checking for impurities, draining water, and low-temperature storage.

1. Quick Rinse

Place dried seaweed into a strainer and rinse the surface quickly with flowing water. The water flow should not be too strong to avoid the seaweed breaking. This step can remove dust and some salt attached to the surface of seaweed, and the flushing time should be controlled within 10 seconds to prevent the loss of water-soluble nutrients.

2. Soak and remove sand

Soak seaweed in room temperature water for 3-5 minutes, gently stirring to allow the sand particles to settle. Seaweed grown in seawater may contain trace amounts of sea sand, and it is normal for sediment to appear on the bottom of the water after soaking. If soaked in warm water, the temperature should not exceed 40 degrees Celsius to avoid damaging the texture of the seaweed.

3. Check for Impurities

Spread the soaked seaweed flat and manually remove any remaining shell fragments or algal impurities. Special attention should be paid to observing dark seaweed, and if necessary, a white container substrate can be used for inspection. This step is particularly important for ready to eat seaweed, as it can avoid affecting the taste.

4. Drain Water

After cleaning, the seaweed should be fully drained and can be placed on a sieve for 10 minutes or lightly pressed to remove excess water. When making seaweed rice dumplings, it is necessary to ensure that the surface is dry to prevent the rice from sticking. If you need to accelerate drying, you can use kitchen paper to gently press and absorb water to avoid rubbing and causing the seaweed to break.

5. Low temperature storage

Wet seaweed that has not been consumed in a timely manner should be stored in a fresh-keeping box, covered with moist gauze, and refrigerated. It is recommended to consume it within 2 days. Dried seaweed should be stored in a sealed and dark place. It is best to store it in the refrigerator after opening to maintain its crispy texture and prevent moisture and spoilage. Seaweed is rich in iodine, calcium, and dietary fiber, so attention should be paid to preserving nutrients during the cleaning process. It is recommended to choose high-quality seaweed produced in unpolluted waters to avoid nutrient loss caused by repeated cleaning. Daily consumption can be paired with sesame oil or vinegar cold mix, which can enhance flavor and help with mineral absorption. For patients with thyroid diseases, the intake of seaweed should be controlled under the guidance of a doctor. When storing, pay attention to moisture and mold prevention. If any odor or discoloration is found, stop eating immediately.