Nori

Nori is the Japanese name for laver, a fine red alga of the genus Pyropia (syn. Porphyra) pressed and dried into thin, papery sheets. Usually left plain and unseasoned, it is the wrapper of the sushi world, rolled around maki and onigiri, or shredded into slim ribbons as kizami nori scattered over rice and noodles. A quick toasting crisps it, turns it green, and wakes up a flavor that stays mild, briny, and faintly sweet, the perfect complement to rice.