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Seaweed Profiles: Harvesting Delicacies from Monterey Bay

California-based company Monterey Bay Seaweeds cultivates diverse edible seaweed species in land-tank facilities in Moss Landing.

Seaweed Profiles in the Monterey Bay: Tide to Table Exploration
Seaweed Profiles in the Monterey Bay: Tide to Table Exploration

Seaweed Profiles: Harvesting Delicacies from Monterey Bay

In the latest instalment of our "Tide to Table" series, we're diving into the world of Monterey Bay Seaweeds, a pioneering member of the Coalition for Sustainable Aquaculture. This family-owned business, co-founded by Dr. Michael Graham and Erica Graham, is revolutionising the culinary scene with their sustainably farmed seaweeds.

Based in California, Monterey Bay Seaweeds cultivates a variety of edible seaweeds, including West Coast dulse, sea lettuce, sea grapes, and ogo. These seaweeds are grown in land-based tanks and harvested to order, without the use of any feeds, additives, or chemicals.

Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond the farm. Monterey Bay Seaweeds partners with San Jose State University's Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, furthering their mission to promote responsible aquaculture practices.

In a twist on traditional stovetop popcorn, Monterey Bay Seaweeds has published a recipe that incorporates their dulse seaweed. The recipe begins by heating Thrive algae oil in a large pot, adding a few popcorn kernels, and removing them once they pop to ensure the oil is the correct temperature.

Next, the popcorn kernels and dulse seaweed are added to the pot, covered immediately due to the moisture in the dulse causing splatter. The pot is then removed from heat and left to sit for 1 minute before returning it to the heat. Once the popcorn stops popping, it's removed from heat again and transferred to a serving bowl.

The recipe finishes by melting butter and extra seasoning in the heated pot, drizzling it on the popcorn, and mixing together. For those seeking an extra kick of flavour, additional steps are suggested on Monterey Bay Seaweeds' blog and Instagram account.

Monterey Bay Seaweeds supplies their seaweeds directly to restaurants and chefs nationwide, but they do not ship internationally due to the live nature of their products. They also offer the possibility of farming custom varieties of seaweed in their land-based tank system for chefs who seek unique culinary experiences.

So, whether you're a chef looking to elevate your dishes or a home cook seeking a sustainable snack option, Monterey Bay Seaweeds is a name worth remembering. For more seaweed-inspired recipes, be sure to check out their blog and social media channels!

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