Sea oak or arame is a dark greenish-brown seaweed with long, wavy fronds which is dried in the wind. It is rich in calcium and has a delicate, sweetish mild flavour. It is sold dried and shredded and can be an ingredient in traditional Japanese miso soup or flavoured with soy sauce and lemon for salads. It should be soaked for 15-20 minutes in fresh water until tender before use. Arame should be soaked for 10-15 minutes before used, during which time it will double in volume. It should then be rinsed and drained. It is often served as a side dish, sautéed with tofu and onions or carrots. It is similar to wakame.
