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Mark your calendars! National Laverbread Day rolls around every April 14th, and it’s a celebration of a truly unique Welsh delicacy made from porphyra seaweed. This nutrient rich superfood has gained popularity thanks to the Pembrokeshire Beach Food Company, which launched the event back in 2021/2022. Laverbread is not just a tasty treat; it’s a way to honour the rich culinary heritage of Wales while promoting sustainable food sources.

But what exactly is laverbread? In short, it’s a purée made from edible seaweed, often enjoyed as part of a traditional Welsh breakfast, where it pairs beautifully with bacon and eggs. Although it’s called “bread,” it’s not bread in the conventional sense. Instead, think of it as a savoury, oceanic delight rich in umami flavour.

• What is it? A purée made from edible seaweed.
• Is it bread? No, despite the name.
• Where is it from? Wales.
• What does it taste like? Savoury, oceanic, umami-rich.
• Is it healthy? Absolutely! It’s packed with minerals and naturally low in fat.
• How do you eat it? Typically fried into patties, spread on toast, or incorporated into various dishes.

How to cook laverbread for a breakfast patty (lavercake), mix 225g of laverbread with 75g of oats (porridge or oatmeal) and season with pepper. Shape into small, 1cm-thick patties and fry in hot butter or bacon fat for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy.

The significance of April 14th goes beyond just celebrating laverbread; it coincides with Japan’s “Mother of the Sea Day.” This day honours Kathleen Mary Drew-Baker, a researcher whose work played a pivotal role in the development of the Japanese nori industry. How’s that for a cross-cultural connection?

When it comes to health benefits, laverbread shines with its impressive nutritional profile. Rich in iron, iodine, and protein, this superfood is a fantastic addition to any diet, particularly for those seeking nutritious and sustainable options.

Laverbread can be enjoyed in various ways: fry it up in healthy patties, spread it thick on toast, or toss it into soups and salads for an extra kick. No matter how it’s served, it’s bound to introduce a new flavour that delights the palate.

Ready to give it a try? Laverbread can easily be sourced online, making this Welsh treat accessible no matter where you are. So why not dive in and celebrate not just a unique food item, but a cultural heritage rich in history and flavor? It’s time to explore the deep, savory taste of laverbread!

More info: https://cerijoneschef.com/lavercakes/

Buy online: Traditional Welsh Laverbread