Omayu's Seaweed Journal - Difference netween Aonori & Aosa ~
Dried Aonori Powder
When it comes to topping okonomiyaki, it's gotta be "Aonori", not "Aosa"!
Wait, so what's the difference between "Aonori" and "Aosa"? Aren't they just different names for the same thing?
I bet many of you have thought that.
But actually, "Aonori" and "Aosa" are completely different types of seaweed!
These green seaweeds may look similar, but using "Aonori" instead of "Aosa" can make your usual okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and tempura even more delicious!
So, let me explain you to this versatile seaweed; "Aonori" and how it's different from "Aosa" seaweed.
Different Species: Aonori vs. Aosa
Classification of green algae
In the world of green algae, "aonori" and "aosa" belong to the same group but are entirely different species. It's like how Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber belong to the same HYBE agency but are completely different artists.
Aonori Quiz Question 1!
Green powdery seaweed products you see near the okonomiyaki mix in the supermarket, are usually labeled as "Aonori powder" or "Aosa powder."
Are they all "Aonori"? True or False?
If you answered true, sorry, you're close but not quite! The correct answer is more false than true.
While some products might be "Aonori," most of them nowadays are actually "Aosa."
Aonori Quiz Question 2!
What about those dark green fresh seaweeds labeled "Fresh Aonori" in the seafood section? Are they "Aonori"? True or False?
You might think "true" since they're called "Aonori," but nope, the answer is false!
Those are actually "Hitoegusa," which is neither "Aonori" nor "Aosa." (Check the classification chart for reference.) "
Must to my suprise, "Aonori" is rarely sold fresh in supermarkets.
Adding to the confusion, "Hitoegusa" is often sold as dried powder labeled as "Aosa" or "Aosanori." In soups at restaurants or as a raw material for seaweed tsukudani, it’s usually "Hitoegusa."
So, "Aonori powder" is often "Aosa," and "Fresh Aonori" is actually "Hitoegusa." It's confusing, right?
Even we at Sea Vegetable sometimes mix them up ^^
So where can we actually find real Aonori?
Where to Find Real Aonori
Rare and Expensive Aonori
Among "Aonori," the most fragrant and well-known type is "Suji-Aonori," which grows in brackish water where seawater mixes with river water. It's primarily found in Kochi and Tokushima prefectures.
Nowadays, even in these regions, wild "Aonori" is scarce, and farmed production has significantly decreased. Due to its rarity, it's traded with 50,000 yen per kilogram, which is pretty much expensive for seaweeds.
"Suji-Aonori" is highly prized for its sea aroma, bright green color, and smooth texture.
And we at Sea Vegetable only use this top-quality "Suji-Aonori" in our product "Dried Suji-Aonori".
(If you’re wondering how Sea Vegetable maintains a steady supply of such rare "Aonori," stay tuned for a future article on our production process!)
"Aosa" and "Hitoegusa" are more commonly available and affordable, so you might have used them in your everyday cooking.
While a bit pricier, "Aonori" stands out for its intense aroma.
Does Aonori Really Stick to Your Teeth?
Let's look at the shapes of fresh "Aonori" and "Aosa."
"Aonori" is long and thin, which is like a bundled threads.
Floating in water, it looks just like gently swaying tentacles.
Suji- Aonori floating in the water
On the other hand, "Aosa" is thin and film-like.
The idea that "Aonori powder sticks to your teeth" comes from the flat shape of "Aosa," which is often dried and powdered. Square-shaped flakes are usually "Aosa."
In contrast, the long, thin shape of "aonori" makes it less likely to stick to your teeth.
Aosa floating in the water
Delicious Uses for Fragrant & Bright Suji-Aonori
Now, let's explore some delicious ways to use "Suji-Aonori." Check out Sea Vegetable's Recipe page for more!
Besides the obvious okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and tempura, "Suji-Aonori" pairs beautifully with white fish and dairy products for a rich flavor boost.
Even a simple toast can become special when topped with mayo or butter and a sprinkle of Suji-Aonori after toasting.
Talking about food is making me hungry...
Adding a touch of "Suji-Aonori" to your everyday meals can bring a delightful touch of luxury.
While affordable "Aosa powder" from the supermarket is nice, the unique flavor of real "Suji-Aonori" is something you must try!
If you’ve read this far, congratulations! You’ve completed the beginner’s course on "Suji-Aonori"!
For those who want to dive deeper, check out the advanced course "Sumeshiya Okada's Comprehensive Guide to Suji-Aonori! Read more and become a true " Suji-Aonori" master!
