Called “hoshi nori” in Japanese, these purple looking sheets require a brief toasting by unfolding the sheet and holding it over a gas flame or electric burner until it begins to turn green. They make an ideal snack or wrapping for rice or sushi rolls.

Torn or cut with scissors into thin strips, nori makes a tasty garnish for grain, noodle and vegetable dishes as well as soups and salads.

Like many foods, nori is available in different qualities. Lesser grades are a dull, purplish-black colour and lack the vibrant sheen of Clearspring Japanese Nori whose fine, even texture and translucent, deep-green colour are proof of its excellent quality.