What is nori?
Nori is a thin, paper-like seaweed that plays a crucial role in sushi-making. Not only does it serve as a wrapper to hold the sushi together, but it also adds a unique flavour and a subtle crunch. Nori is a type of algae that is harvested from the ocean, washed, and then pressed into thin sheets. The end result is the familiar dark green or black seaweed sheets that we use for sushi making.
Try and buy good quality nori if you can. Look for sheets that are dark green even black in colour, as the darker varieties are preferred. Nori is graded in Japan with 9 different levels. Other countries have their own systems of grading but honestly, work with what you have. I often end up using lower grade nori, out of necessity, and the end result it still delicious. It just might not look as pretty.
Nori is graded not by flavour but by appearance. The darker the better. The shinier the better. The thicker the better. High grade nori won’t rip easily or have thin spots where holes can easily develop. It is thick, dark and shiny.
Where can you buy nori
You should be able to buy a packet of nori in your grocery store but if not, try your local Asian grocery store. They will hopefully have a bigger range with more than one brand. Try and buy a Japanese brand if you can as Japanese nori is generally higher quality compared to Mexican or Chinese. But again, work with what you have.
Fresh vs stale nori
Freshness is key when it comes to nori. Fresh nori sheets provide a satisfying crunch while stale nori can become almost soggy. To keep your sheets fresh, store any leftover nori in a ziplock bag. Some brands even come in ziplock bags, which is great!
Traditionally, nori sheets are toasted over an open flame before use, which not only enhances their aroma but also adds depth of flavour and increases crispiness. While toasting stale nori may help revive it, it’s always best to start with fresh sheets. I haven’t tried to resurrect stale nori by toasting stale sheets but I plan to, and will report back!
Nori’s distinct umami flavour comes from its mineral content, which includes iodine, iron, and calcium. So rest assured that you’re getting extra nutritional benefits next time you eat sushi, ha ha.
Using nori in hosomaki.
Using nori in gunkan maki, or ships.
What else can you use nori in
You can use stale sheets in a salad – just cut them up into little strips. Try adding strips on top of a Japanese curry or in a soup. You can also buy little snack packs of nori – seasoned or salted – which are a great lunchbox addition.
