Nori (Sushi Seaweed) (2024)

Nori is the Japanese word for dried edible seaweed, which usually comes in thin, paper-like sheets. It’s a popular ingredient in Japanese and Korean cuisine to wrap rolls of sushi or onigiri.

What is Nori (sushi seaweed)?

Nori is dried seaweed sheets made from red algae, which turns dark green when dried. It’s usually used as a wrapper for sushi, snacks, or seasoning.

Originally from Japan, nori is commonly found in the form of7″ x 8″ sheet and often used insushi rolls and onigiri rice balls. Other forms include strips, shredded, flakes, and powdered. They are sold in packs in grocery stores for culinary purpose.

Nori calories

Nori seaweed is very low in calories. Ten sheets of nori are about 26 grams and contain only 9 calories.

Nutrition value and health benefits

Nori is a good source of nutrients as it’s a plant with animal nutrients. There are some nutrients in nori that are not commonly found in other fruits or vegetables.

• It’s known to be a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for the brain and immune system.
• Nori is also a good source of iron, but unlike that in vegetables such as spinach, the iron from nori is much easier for the body to absorb.
• In addition, nori also contains some essential vitamins such as vitamin B12 and minerals, especially iodine.

Since nori is rich in nutrients that are often found in animal products, it’s very helpful for people who have a vegan or vegetarian diet.

As a result, nori also has great health benefits:

• Nori consumption can help remove toxins.
• The healthy proteins from nori have anti-inflammatory effects and can improve the immune system.
• It has positive effects on the cardiovascular system.

What is Nori seaweed made of?

Nori is made from a species of red algae called Porphyra, including Porphyra Yezoenis and Porphyra Tenera. It comes in different grades with a wide price range. Cheaper varieties usually have lighter color and not woven tightly.

What does sushi seaweed nori taste like?

Nori is crispy, salty, and slightly nutty with a unique umami flavor. Unlike other types of seaweed, nori is typically consumed dry.

Ways to use nori

Nori sheets

Most nori sheets sold at grocery stores are pre-toasted. If yours is plain/raw, you can toast them at home over the flame on a gas stove (be careful as it can crinkle up fast and even catch fire if you are too close). They’re often used to wrap sushi rolls or rice balls. You can also eat them on their own as a snack.

Shredded nori in furikake

Another popular use of nori is to ground it up and mix with sesame seeds and other seasonings to make furikake. It’s usually sprinkled over a bowl of steamed rice to add flavours.

Nori strips

Nori strips are sometimes used to wrap around nigiri sushi. They’re also often added to soup or ramen. I sometimes sprinkle them over omelets, salad, and steamed vegetables for some extra flavor.

How to make nori sushi rolls?

When using nori to wrap sushi rolls, you can make regular rolls by wrapping the nori around rice. Alternatively, you can make an inside out roll by making the rice on the outside and the nori on the inside, wrapping the filling. Below is the instruction for a regular sushi roll:

• First cut off 1/3 of the nori sheet using kitchen scissors. Then place the remaining nori on top of thebamboo mat,shinning side facing down.
• Spread cooked sushi rice evenly over nori.
• Place your favorite fillings on top of the rice.
• Start rolling using your bamboo mat and firmly keep the roll in place. Apply some pressure to tighten it up.
• Squeeze gently to press the bamboo mat around the roll.
• Remove the mat and slice the roll into bite-size pieces. Serve and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions:

How to store nori?

Nori lasts a long time in the pantry in its original package. Once opened, it’s best to store them in an air-tight container or zip-top bag to reduce air exposure and prevent it from absorbing moisture. If they become less crispy, you can re-toast them over the flame on a gas stove (be careful!)

Is sushi seaweed nori vegan?

Although growing nori involves some animal exploitation, it’s generally viewed as vegan-friendly and many vegans consume nori and other types of seaweed.

Where to buy nori?

They are available at most Asian grocery stores, Whole Foods, and many regular grocery stores. You can also order them online at Amazon.

Recipes using nori:

• Sweet Potato Sushi Rolls
• Caterpillar Rolls
• Spicy Salmon Rolls