In Japan, condiments are widely used. In addition to providing taste, they are good for your health, so much so that macrobiotic enthusiasts love them. Short guide.
In the "Land of the Rising Sun", they are eaten like vegetables, where they are specially grown for this purpose. And for good reason:they are full of minerals, trace elements, vitamins A B and C, and even protein. They help, for example, to eliminate fatty deposits and mucus, and would also help to fight against degenerative diseases. They can be eaten dried, like nori around maki, or in the form of green filaments resembling sea beans. Wakame, for example, contains 975 mg of calcium per 100 grams. A good alternative to those who do not consume dairy products. Kombu contains alginic acid which helps eliminate cholesterol. Nori, on the other hand, is rich in taurine, an amino acid that is good for fighting hypertension. You can cook it in water seasoned with shoyu and ginger for an excellent condiment (you can coat avocado in it, for maki inspiration).
> Different Japanese algae to shop HERE.
Azukis - which means "little bean" - are used in the same way as legumes. These are particularly known to strengthen the kidneys. They must choose those that grow on Hokkaido, a volcanic soil rich in minerals. In Japan and China, they are particularly used to make desserts and pastries, and perfect for vegetarians since they are rich in protein. There is a website with 22 Azuki bean recipes, enjoy!
> Different Azuki beans to shop HERE.
Kuki means twig. This is the famous tea recommended by Georges Ohsawa, the founder of the macrobiotic movement, who nicknamed it the "3-year-old tea". Why ? Because its twigs are young stems of 3 years, quite simply. They are then roasted, and contain no caffeine and only 0.5% theine. It is consumed daily because it alkalizes the blood and thus fights against acidity. Mu tea, on the other hand, was developed by Georges Ohsawa, and consists of 16 wild plants and herbs. We mix the consumption of both for health benefits.
> Different Japanese teas to shop HERE
