The Curious World of Seaweed
Our friend Josie Iselin wrote and created the most beautiful book there ever was about seaweed. It truly captures the beauty and magic of marine algae, while offering a biological look at the structure, ecological importance, and human relationship to 16 seaweed species. A must-have for any seaweed lover or West Coast naturalist!
More about the book:
Marine algae are the supreme eco-engineers of life: they oxygenate the waters, create habitat for countless other organisms, and form the base of a food chain that keeps our planet unique in the universe as we know it. In this beautiful volume Josie Iselin explores both the artistic and the biological presence of sixteen seaweeds and kelps that live in the thin region where the Pacific Ocean converges with the North American continent―a place of incomparable richness. Each species receives a detailed description of its structure, ecological importance, and humans’ scientific inquiry into it, told in scientifically illuminating yet deeply reverent and inspired prose. Throughout the writings are historical botanical illustrations and Iselin’s signature, Marimekko-like portraits of each specimen that reveal their vibrant colors―whether rosy, “olivaceous,” or grass-green―and whimsical shapes. Iselin posits that we can learn not only about the seaweeds but also from them: their resilience, their resourcefulness, their poetry and magic.
A Sea of Flavor
Over and over again, we fall in love with seaweed's culinary potential. From the depth it brings to broth and soup, to the savory burst of flavor on avocado toast, to the umami richness of seaweed flakes on a crispy fried egg, seaweed is endlessly versatile and inspiring. You'll find that it lends a savory balance to rich and sweet foods, a punch of seasoning to mild flavors, and a briny backbone to just about anything. Use it anywhere you use salt and taste the difference.
A Nourishing Green
We cringe to call it a "superfood", overused as that word is, but the truth is... seaweed is rich! In nutrients, fiber, and protein. Every sprinkle of seaweed flakes is packed with essential vitamins and minerals like iodine, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins. Seaweeds contain omega-3 fatty acids and compounds like fucoidan, which has been shown to have anti-oxidative and anti-tumor properties.
A Salty Climate Solution
Ecologically speaking, seaweed is a regenerative and healing "plant." The ocean absorbs 40% of the carbon we release into the atmosphere, which acidifies the water and prevents shellfish and corals from growing their shells and skeletons. Absorbing the carbon into seaweed can offset that damage, without the environmental pitfalls of industrialized farming.
