Seaweed Superfood: Maesaengi’s Low Calories and High Calcium Win Fans at Home and Abroad
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
Maesaengi (a fine green seaweed) is a winter seasonal delicacy in Korea, prized as a “winter sea tonic.” Often served as maesaengi-gulguk (maesaengi and oyster soup), it’s valued for a smooth, savory texture and rich nutrition. Maesaengi is high in calcium (about 574 mg per 100 g, roughly five times that of milk) and iron (about 43.1 mg per 100 g), very low in calories (13–16 kcal/100 g), and contains protein, fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. Traditionally seen as a nuisance in seaweed farms because it can smother nori, maesaengi gained popularity after its health benefits became known. It’s best added at the end of cooking to preserve texture and nutrients; it’s used in soups, pancakes, and salads. Careful washing is needed (soak and gently shake; pick out impurities), and frozen-dried cubes now make preparation easier. Maesaengi’s warm, comforting qualities and unique mouthfeel have attracted positive attention on international media and social platforms, helping promote K-food’s healthy image. (maesaengi: a delicate, thin green seaweed harvested mainly from clean coastal areas like Wando)
