Thick, wide strips of Kombu [1] are commonly used to flavour Japanese soups, noodle broths and stocks (dashi [2]).

Kombu contains natural glutamic acid that draws out the taste of other foods.

To prepare a basic stock, add one piece of kombu to a litre of water and bring to a simmer. If the kombu is soaked in the water for an hour first it will become tender enough after simmering to slice, season and add to vegetable dishes.

A strip of kombu cooked with beans helps to soften them and improve digestibility.

Kombu is a Japanese variety of kelp with pronounced culinary appeal. Whilst a lot of Japanese kombu is cultivated nowadays, Clearspring kombu is harvested wild in the cold waters off Hidaka in Hokkaido, Japan's northern island.

Wild Hidaka kombu is considered a premium grade, being prized both for its tenderness, enabling it to be used as a vegetable, and for its exceptional flavouring ability.

Kombu contains a wide range of minerals and is especially rich in iodine.

Clearspring Kombu is Laminaria japonica, sustainably wild harvested and dried in Japan.

Available in a 50g box