Dried Kelp Leaf (昆布), also known as Kun Bu, is an ancient herbal ingredient used for a wide variety of functions.
With a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine, it has been used for centuries as a delicious and versatile food herb.
So, without further ado here are 5 great ways to use Dried Kelp Leaf to boost your health and wellbeing...
What is Dried Kelp Leaf?
Originally sourced from the Shandong, Liaoning and Zhejiang provinces in China, this herb is collected between summer and autumn.
Dried Kelp Leaf is an edible, seaweed-like vegetable which possesses a potent odour and salty taste. It is mainly used in the East as a flavour enhancer, food taster, as well as in teas, soups, beans and noodle dishes.
What are the health benefits of this herb?
Naturally high in antioxidants (carotenoids, flavonoids), these compounds can help protect the body's immune function from disease-spreading free radicals.
Dried Kelp Leaf also contains generous amounts of manganese and zinc which can help to contribute towards lower levels of oxidative stress, whilst boosting cardiovascular health.
Across the Eastern world, this herb is considered an excellent tonic to treat various common ailments. The dried nature of this herb increases its potential to treat swollen thyroid gland, promote and clear blood stagnation, assist heart disease and promote healthy yin.
Being a well-known herb across Chinese medicine, this ingredient has been used traditionally to help:
- Dissolve phlegm
- Alleviate edema
- Promote urination
- Reduce internal swelling
- Assist immune system enhancement
- Lower blood pressure and cholesterol
- Prevent tumour growth
- Possesses anti-cancerous properties
As promised, here are our top 5 uses of Dried Kelp Leaf to introduce into your daily routine...
1) Salads
Combining this herb with oil and black sesame seeds is a quick and easy way to make a health-boosting herbal salad from stratch.
Add your choice of protein if desired to complete this fantastic light lunch option.
2) Soups
Ditch the boring traditional tomato soup for an uplifting, unique choice to set your tastebuds in motion.
Combining this with root vegetable ingredients is a quick win!
3) Food Seasoning
As many world renowned chefs continually remind us - season, season, season.
Using Dried Kelp Leaf as a seasoning ingredient can sprinkle a little Eastern magic to create a delightful dish.
4) Vegetable Juice/Protein Shake
Calling all juice lovers - this is one you won't want to miss.
Mixing this with other natural vegetables makes for a sweet sipping experience.
5) Noodle Dishes
Sprinkle some re-hydrated Kelp Leaves onto your noodle dishes to give it a differential taste!
Where can I buy Dried Kelp Leaf?
You can get hold of this herb in the following quantity:
Dried Kelp Leaf 昆布 (Kun Bu) | (500g)
Summary
Now that you've got some scrumptious ideas of how to use this versatile herb, we're excited to see you impress your friends and family with your Kun Bu skills!
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