What is abalone?

• Abalone is a sea mollusk found in cold water off the coasts of South America, West Coast of North America, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. The best dried abalone are from Japan.
• For the Chinese, it is considered one of the big four delicacies of the sea  “鮑、參、翅、肚” , including abalone, sea cucumber, shark fins and fish maw.
• Abalone is a symbol of wealth and prosperity, thus a must-have at feasts and festivities.

What is dried Abalone?

• Dried abalone is an acquired, expensive taste, like caviar or truffles.
• Dried abalone is used to impart a distinct flavor to Chinese soups.
• It has a sweeter taste and firmer texture than canned or frozen abalone.
• Each abalone has its own unique characteristics, but shares commonalities such as texture and strong flavor, umami, a special delicate seafood flavor 鮮味 (sin1mei6).
• The highest quality abalone species are 禾麻鮑, 吉品鮑, and 網鮑.

Are there any health benefits?

• Abalone is an excellent source of many vital nutrients. It is high in protein yet low calories. It also contains blend of minerals and vitamins including iodine, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin A. The fat content remains low with no cholesterol.
• It can relieve dry coughs and nourishes liver and promote eye health.

How do I select dried abalone?

• The size of dried abalone is measured in “heads” 頭. This is the number of abalone in a catty (around 600g).  The fewer the heads, the bigger the size of the abalone, more valuable and rarer.  
• Quality dried abalone has smooth surfaces, thick body with sharp edges.
• The best kind of abalone is devoid of cracks and mold. Avoid darkened ones.

How do I prepare/eat dried abalone?

• Dried abalone requires 2 days soaking to reconstitute, followed by braising or stewing.
• Dried abalone connoisseurs enjoy abalone by braising it whole and eating it like a steak.
• Dried abalone can be added in soup. Canned or fresh abalone has far less concentrated flavor.
• It is usually simmered in broth for several hours to soften and served whole or in slices with a savory sauce.

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