Sesame Nori Crunch Mix
Elevate your culinary creations with this delightful Sesame Nori Crunch Mix! This versatile seasoning blend combines toasted nori with nutty sesame seeds and a hint of sea salt, perfect for adding flavor and texture to a variety of dishes. Use it to enhance leftover rice, sprinkle it over salads, or blend it into grain bowls for a delicious twist. Sourced from the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine, this recipe is not only simple to make but also a fantastic way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals. Adapted from the esteemed Deborah Madison's Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Nori
2 sheets (Toasted)
White Sesame Seeds
1/2 cup (Toasted)
Sea Salt
2 teaspoons (Measured)
Red Pepper Flakes
1 teaspoon (Measured (optional based on heat preference))
Instructions
1
Begin by toasting the nori: Hold each sheet over a direct flame or hot burner, flipping frequently until it crisps up and changes color to a duller green. This should take about 15-30 seconds per side.
2
Once toasted, stack the nori sheets and cut them into thin strips using kitchen scissors. Then, slice the strips into small squares or desired shapes.
3
In a dry skillet, add the white sesame seeds and sea salt. Toast over medium heat, stirring frequently until the seeds turn golden brown and fragrant. This typically takes around 3-5 minutes.
4
Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Use a coffee grinder, mortar and pestle, or food processor to pulse the toasted seeds and salt until they are just blended together, taking care not to grind them too fine.
5
In a bowl, combine the toasted nori squares with the sesame salt mixture and red pepper flakes, stirring well to evenly distribute.
6
Allow the blend to cool completely, then transfer it to a glass jar with a lid for storage. Keep the jar sealed to maintain crispness.
7
Enjoy this delicious mix as a seasoning for rice, vegetables, or as a flavorful snack!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sesame Nori Crunch Mix?
It is a versatile Japanese-style seasoning blend made of toasted nori, sesame seeds, and sea salt used to add flavor and texture to various dishes.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The mix consists of 2 sheets of nori, 1/2 cup of white sesame seeds, 2 teaspoons of sea salt, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
How do I toast the nori sheets?
Hold each sheet over a direct flame or hot burner, flipping frequently for 15-30 seconds per side until it becomes crisp and turns a duller green.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian recipe adapted from Deborah Madison's 'Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone'.
How should the toasted nori be prepared after toasting?
Stack the toasted sheets and use kitchen scissors to cut them into thin strips, then slice those strips into small squares or desired shapes.
How do I toast the sesame seeds and salt?
Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until the seeds are golden brown and fragrant.
Can I use a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a food processor, coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle to pulse the toasted seeds and salt together.
What is the recommended texture for the ground seeds?
The seeds and salt should be just blended together; be careful not to grind them into a fine powder.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What is the best way to store Sesame Nori Crunch Mix?
Store the completely cooled mixture in a sealed glass jar with a lid to maintain its crispness.
What can I serve with this crunch mix?
It is perfect for seasoning leftover rice, salads, grain bowls, vegetables, or even as a standalone snack.
Is the red pepper flakes ingredient mandatory?
No, the red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your heat preference.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 4 ingredients in this recipe.
What is the origin of this seasoning style?
The recipe is sourced from the rich culinary traditions of Japanese cuisine.
Is there a specific name for this type of seasoning?
This mix is related to 'gomashio', which is a traditional Japanese sesame salt seasoning.
Can I use this mix for rice balls?
Yes, it is an excellent seasoning for Japanese rice balls.
How long does it take for the sesame seeds to turn golden?
It typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes over medium heat.
Should I use oil to toast the seeds?
No, the recipe specifies using a dry skillet for toasting the white sesame seeds and sea salt.
What color does nori turn when it is properly toasted?
It changes from its original color to a duller green once it becomes crisp.
Can I substitute white sesame seeds for another variety?
While the recipe calls for white sesame seeds, you could experiment with black sesame seeds for a different visual appeal.
What should I do if the mix loses its crunch?
To prevent this, ensure the jar is tightly sealed and the mixture was completely cool before storage.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a fantastic way to incorporate healthy ingredients like nori and sesame into your meals.
What is the first step in making this mix?
The process begins by toasting the nori sheets over a direct flame.
Do I need to grind the nori squares?
No, the nori squares are stirred into the ground sesame salt mixture after the seeds have been pulsed.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as Japanese cuisine.
Can I use this as a salad topper?
Absolutely, it adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to any salad.
How do I know when the seeds are finished toasting?
They will become golden brown and release a fragrant, nutty aroma.
What type of salt is recommended?
The recipe specifically recommends using sea salt for the best flavor.
What is the source of the recipe inspiration?
The recipe is adapted from Deborah Madison's esteemed book, Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone.
Is the serving size defined?
The recipe yields 8 servings, though the specific serving size in measurements is not specified.