Nori is a type of edible seaweed made from different types of red seaweed. They grow on rocks in shallow water in cold water. Nori is widely used in Japanese cuisine. Like other types of seaweed, nori has a unique umami taste and is usually eaten dry. Nori used to be available only in paste form, now we know it as pressed dried sheets measuring ~ 18*20 cm.
What is nori useful for?
Nori is not only tasty with rolls, but also useful for the body. Red algae are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are easily absorbed by the body. Nori promotes healthy blood circulation, regulates blood sugar and lowers bad cholesterol. It’s also a rich source of calcium and magnesium, so it supports bone health and is packed with antioxidants that help boost your immune system. Eating nori is also useful because it will help remove toxins from the body. These toxins are organic pollutants that can get in through the foods you eat.
- Iodine and Tyrosine – one gram of nori seaweed contains 37 mcg of iodine, which is about 25% of the recommended dietary allowance. It also contains the amino acid tyrosine, which, in combination with iodine, promotes the synthesis of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), both of which are thyroid hormones.
- Vitamins and Minerals – vitamins A, B1, B12, C and E are present and minerals are magnesium, sodium, folate, calcium, iron and omega-3 fats.
- Protective Antioxidants – the flavonoids and carotenoids in nori seaweed play a critical role in neutralizing free radicals, thus reducing their chance of damaging cells.
- Fiber and polysaccharides are effective in maintaining gut health.
At the same time, remember that nori contains a lot of sodium. Sodium is necessary for proper maintenance of healthy blood pressure. But people with high blood pressure should not consume nori in large quantities.
Can you make rolls without nori?
You can. If, for some reason, you want to make your rolls without nori, here are some options: Wrap the rolls in cucumber, thin omelette, rice paper, tofu skins, or soybean sheets—these are great alternatives to nori if you’re into it.