Seaweed Taste Test (Harvest of the Month Activity)

“Seaweed” is the common name for countless species of marine plants and algae that grow in the ocean as well as in rivers, lakes, and other water bodies. Full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, seaweed can be a delicious and nutritious snack. But where to start? In this seaweed taste test, students can compare some readily available seaweeds and make a simple seaweed salad. As always, make sure to check for all allergens beforehand! 

Some good options for a seaweed taste test are: 

• Nori: Mild and slightly sweet
• Wakame: Slightly sweet and tender
• Dulse: Salty and savory 
• Kombu: Rich in umami. (Umami is the fifth basic taste alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter, often described as a savory, brothy, or meaty flavor.)

To prepare for a seaweed taste test, soak dried seaweed for 15-20 minutes to hydrate. If you don’t want to do a taste test due to allergies or food policies, you could also examine these different types of seaweed under a microscope for a much closer look and have students record their findings. 

Seaweed Salad

15 mins, makes 2 cups 

Add the following ingredients to a bowl & mix: 

• 1/4 cup (approx. 1 oz) dried wakame seaweed
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
• 1 tsp sugar or honey
• 1/4 tsp salt (optional)
• Optional: 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• Optional add: sliced cucumber, shredded carrot, or avocado 

Seaweed is a source of widely used ingredients such as carrageenan, alginate (or algin), and agar, which act as thickeners, gelling agents, and stabilizers. These substances are commonly found in foods like ice cream, yogurt, salad dressings, and processed meats, as well as in products like cosmetics, toothpaste, and skincare items. Ask students to check for these ingredients in food and personal care products at home and compile a list to compare their findings.