Cultural inheritance:
Kelp has deep roots in Korean culture. For centuries, Koreans have always regarded kelp as a symbol of health and longevity. Seaweed soup is a traditional dish, which often appears on holiday tables as a sacrifice to ancestors. This tradition has been integrated into Korean culture and become a part of national identity.
Rich in nutrition:
Kelp is a nutritious food, rich in minerals and vitamins such as iodine, iron, calcium and magnesium. Among them, iodine is an essential nutrient for thyroid hormone synthesis, which is very important for human metabolism and development. Koreans generally consume iodine, which is inseparable from their daily consumption of kelp.
Detoxification effect:
Kelp is rich in a compound called thioalanine, which has detoxification effect. This compound can combine with heavy metals and toxins to help the human body excrete harmful substances. Therefore, Koreans often eat seaweed soup to relieve discomfort when they are affected by radiation or other environmental toxins.
Clearing heat and relieving summer heat:
Kelp has the effect of clearing away heat and relieving summer heat. Seaweed soup is usually regarded as a summer drink, which can help cool down and quench thirst. In hot weather, Koreans often refrigerate seaweed soup as a cool summer drink.
Treat diseases:
Seaweed soup is considered to have the effect of treating some diseases. For example, some people think that seaweed soup can relieve the pain of arthritis, reduce infection and improve the health of digestive system. Although these claims have not been scientifically confirmed, people have thought that seaweed soup has medicinal value for centuries.
Convenient and quick:
Seaweed soup is easy to make and convenient. A large pot of seaweed soup prepared in advance can be stored for several days and heated at any time. This makes seaweed soup a convenient and quick dietary choice for Koreans in their busy lifestyles.
Social tradition:
Sharing seaweed soup is an important social tradition in Korea. Seaweed soup is usually served at multi-party parties as a way to share food and establish contact. Especially on special occasions, seaweed soup is regarded as a symbol of blessing and good luck.
Koreans often eat kelp and seaweed soup for many reasons, including cultural heritage, rich nutrition, detoxification effect, clearing away heat and relieving summer heat, curing diseases, convenience, social traditions and so on. These factors work together to make kelp and seaweed soup occupy an indispensable position in Korean food culture and health practice.