Irish sea moss

Irish sea moss

The Irish sea moss - © Inga

A superfood, harvested along the Irish coast, and associated with many local specialties.

In Ireland, it’s common practice to exploit the ocean’s natural resources. And in this respect, Irish Sea Moss is a seaweed that is gaining increasing attention for its exceptional health benefits. This red seaweed, which grows abundantly along the rocky coasts of Ireland, but also in other regions of the North Atlantic, is a superfood that is currently gaining notoriety.

Rich in essential nutrients, it has become a must-have for those seeking to enrich their diet in a natural and effective way… and is now one of Ireland’s renowned gourmet products!

A look at a seaweed that may not look like much at first glance, but is becoming an increasingly popular ingredient on Irish plates!

Irish sea moss: the Irish seaweed everyone’s raving about

A seaweed used for centuries by the Irish

Traditionally used in Irish coastal communities for its nutritive properties, especially in times of famine, Irish Sea Moss (also known as Carrageen) is now finding its way into the modern world.

Thanks to its moisturizing and nourishing properties, it has become a popular ingredient in health and wellness, as well as in skin care.

The taste of Irish sea moss is often described as slightly salty, with subtle ocean notes. This seaweed is popular for its gelatinous texture when rehydrated. It is used as a thickener in preparations.

A concentrate of marine benefits

Easy to recognize, Irish moss takes the form of a small red seaweed with small branches. It is generally found on shallow shores along the Atlantic coast and in the Irish Sea.

Irish Sea Moss gradually lightens as it dries, turning orange. It is distinguished by its richness in minerals, vitamins and antioxidants… making it a little nutritional bomb!

It is estimated to contain 92 of the 102 minerals our body needs to function optimally.

These include calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. It’s also an excellent source of iodine, crucial for thyroid health. In addition, it offers vitamins such as C, B12 and K, essential for strengthening the immune system, bone health and blood clotting.

Irish sea moss is also appreciated for its prebiotic properties, which promote good intestinal health. It helps soothe the mucous membranes of the digestive system and may contribute to the prevention of digestive disorders.

What’s more, its high fiber content helps regulate intestinal transit, making it an important ally in weight management and body detoxification.

A seaweed used in Irish cooking

One of the remarkable advantages of Irish Sea Moss is its versatility in the kitchen. Once rehydrated, it becomes a natural gelling agent that adds body to certain recipes.

Among the best-known Irish specialties is Carrageen Moss Pudding, a kind of custard made from sugar, eggs and milk. To give it its pudding-like texture, Irish sea moss is introduced into the preparation, giving body to the whole without altering its taste.

As a result, this seaweed can be added to a multitude of recipes, from smoothies to soups. This makes it an ideal ingredient for enriching your diet without any extra effort.

So much more to discover...