Have you ever wondered how to cook kelp? It’s one of those superfoods that you might not think about often, but once you discover its versatility, it’ll be your kitchen’s secret weapon. Kelp is nutrient-packed, loaded with iodine, fiber, and vitamins, and is naturally salty with an umami-rich flavor.
Whether you’re looking to make a hearty soup, a flavorful broth, or a crunchy snack, kelp is incredibly easy to use and will elevate any dish. In this article, I’m sharing some of my favorite ways to cook kelp, from soups to snacks, all vegan-friendly and delicious!
Kelp in Vegan Broth and Soups
If you’re anything like me, you know that a good broth can take a dish from “meh” to “wow” in no time. But what if I told you that adding kelp to your broth could elevate its flavor while giving you a major health boost? That’s right! Kelp is a vegan-friendly superfood that adds a rich umami taste to soups and stews—without any need for animal-based products.
Whether you’re making a simple vegetable soup or a hearty miso bowl, kelp can be the secret ingredient that brings it all together. Let’s break down how to use kelp to make broth and soups that will have you coming back for seconds!
How to Make Kelp Broth: A Simple Vegan Base
- Start with Kombu: Kombu is a type of kelp often used for making broth (a.k.a. dashi in Japanese cuisine). Grab a few pieces (about 4-6 inches long) and give them a rinse to remove any dirt.
- Simmer in Water: Place the kombu in a pot of cold water (about 4 cups of water for every 4 inches of kelp). Slowly bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Flavor Boost: Add a couple of shiitake mushrooms or onions for a deeper flavor, but be careful not to boil too vigorously. Kombu can release a strong flavor when cooked too long, so keep the heat low!
- Strain and Use: After simmering, strain the broth, and you’re left with a rich, savory base that you can use for soups, stews, or even as a base for sauces.
Adding Kelp to Miso Soup for Extra Umami
- Kelp and Miso Pairing: Miso soup and kelp are a classic combo. The natural umami from kelp perfectly complements the salty, earthy flavor of miso. To make your own miso soup, start with a kelp broth base (like the one we just made).
- Simple Recipe: Add a spoonful of your favorite miso paste to the hot kelp broth. Stir it in, then toss in some tofu cubes, chopped green onions, and any veggies you like—spinach and mushrooms work beautifully here!
- Optional Add-ins: For extra texture, you can also add some seaweed flakes or fresh wakame, which will expand in the broth for a nice bite.
- Quick & Easy: Miso soup with kelp can be made in 15 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal!
Kelp for Flavorful Stews and Vegan Soups
- Kelp in Hearty Stews: If you’re making a hearty vegetable or lentil stew, adding kelp is an easy way to take it up a notch. Just throw in a few strips of dried kombu or wakame into your simmering stew for a deep, savory flavor.
- Kelp and Potato Soup: Kelp pairs especially well with root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. The kelp’s subtle briny flavor complements these earthy ingredients, making the soup feel more comforting and full-bodied.
- Cooking Tip: Keep the kelp pieces in the stew while cooking for 30-45 minutes, then remove them before serving. This will give the soup a natural flavor boost without over-powering the other ingredients.
Kelp as a Natural Thickener for Soups
- Thickening with Kelp: Kelp contains natural gelling agents that can act as a thickener in soups. If you want a heartier texture, add a small handful of dried kelp to your pot while the soup is simmering. When blended, the kelp will thicken the broth without adding any unwanted heaviness.
- Alternative to Cornstarch: For vegans avoiding cornstarch or other thickeners, kelp is a great alternative. Its naturally mucilaginous properties make it perfect for creating a silky soup base.
- Texture Tip: After simmering, blend the soup until smooth for a creamy texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel. Either way, you’ll notice a subtle difference in texture and flavor.
Kelp in Vegan Ramen Broth
- Ramen Base: Kelp is an essential ingredient in vegan ramen broths, offering that salty-sweet, umami flavor. Combine kelp with miso paste, soy sauce, and a little rice vinegar to create the base for your ramen.
- Add Toppings: Once you’ve made the broth, cook your ramen noodles separately and add your favorite toppings. Think tofu, corn, spinach, and maybe even a boiled vegan egg for a complete meal.
- Time-Saving Tip: If you’re short on time, use kelp powder to skip the long simmering process. Just stir it into your broth, and you’re good to go!
Fun Ways to Serve Kelp in Vegan Snacks
We all know how easy it is to reach for the same old snacks—chips, crackers, or, let’s be real, anything loaded with sugar. But what if I told you that you could make super healthy, yet delicious snacks using kelp? Yep, that’s right! Kelp isn’t just for soups and stews; it can be transformed into crunchy, savory, and super satisfying snacks. Whether you’re craving something crispy or a little salty, kelp is the perfect base for vegan-friendly munchies that will keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into some fun, simple ways to serve kelp in your snack routine!
Kelp Chips: The Ultimate Crunch
- Simple Recipe: Kelp chips are incredibly easy to make at home. Just take a few sheets of dried kelp (I prefer nori for this), brush them lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle some sea salt or your favorite seasoning.
- Baking Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the kelp on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 5-7 minutes or until crispy. Keep an eye on them—they burn fast!
- Flavor Variations: For a spicy kick, try sprinkling some chili powder, smoked paprika, or nutritional yeast over your kelp before baking. You can even get creative and add sesame seeds or garlic powder for a gourmet twist.
Seaweed Snacks: A Portable, Salty Treat
- Store-Bought Convenience: If you’re not into making your own snacks, there’s no shame in grabbing pre-made seaweed snacks at the store. But, for a more personalized touch, why not make your own?
- How to Prepare: Take some sheets of nori (or dried kelp), brush them with a bit of tamari or soy sauce, and bake them for a few minutes until they’re crispy and a little golden. It’s that easy!
- On-the-Go Snack: These seaweed snacks are portable and perfect for tossing in your bag for when you’re hungry between meals. Plus, they’re packed with iodine and other minerals, so you’ll be snacking smart.
Kelp in Vegan Sushi Rolls
- Make Your Own Rolls: Why not bring the sushi bar to your kitchen? Using dried nori sheets, you can make vegan sushi rolls with all your favorite fillings—think avocado, cucumber, pickled radish, or even a bit of tofu.
- Simple Instructions: Lay out a nori sheet on a bamboo mat (or just use parchment paper), spread a thin layer of rice, and top with your veggies or plant-based proteins. Roll it up tight, slice, and serve with soy sauce or wasabi for an extra punch.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Vegan sushi rolls are not only healthy and delicious but also make for a great meal prep option. You can make them in advance, slice them up, and store them in the fridge for a quick snack or lunch.
Kelp and Avocado Toast: The Ultimate Fusion Snack
- Simple Twist on a Classic: If you love avocado toast (who doesn’t?!), you can easily level it up by adding kelp. Toast your favorite bread, mash up some ripe avocado, and sprinkle with kelp flakes or nori.
- Why It Works: The creamy avocado complements the salty, umami taste of the kelp, creating the perfect balance of flavors. It’s healthy, filling, and totally Instagram-worthy!
- Add Toppings: For an extra crunch, throw on some sesame seeds, sliced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
Kelp and Tofu Wraps: A Protein-Packed Snack
- Healthy Wraps: If
you’re craving something more substantial, try making kelp wraps. Use dried kelp sheets to wrap a filling made of tofu, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of tahini or peanut butter for an extra flavor boost.
- How to Roll: Lay a sheet of dried kelp flat on a plate, add your filling, and roll it up tightly like a burrito. Slice into smaller pieces for easy snacking or meal prep.
- Flavor Tip: Spice it up with a little sriracha or soy sauce, and you’ve got a snack that’s both satisfying and packed with protein.
Kelp and Popcorn: A Savory, Crunchy Combo
- Kelp Popcorn Seasoning: If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy popcorn, try adding kelp! After popping your corn, sprinkle some dried kelp flakes or kelp powder over the top, along with a bit of salt and olive oil.
- Perfect Pairing: The light, airy texture of popcorn paired with the umami of kelp creates a unique, satisfying flavor that’s way more interesting than your typical buttered popcorn.
- Flavor Variations: Get creative with the seasoning! Try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Kelp is one of those ingredients that might seem intimidating at first, but once you start experimenting, you’ll find it’s easy to incorporate into both your meals and your snacks. Whether you’re making a warm,
comforting soup or a crunchy snack, kelp adds that extra boost of flavor and nutrition you’ve been looking for. So, why not give it a try? The next time you’re in the kitchen, grab some kelp and get creative—your taste buds will thank you!