I purchased a package of seaweed knots recently.

Nope. I had no idea what a “seaweed knot” was … but I never let that slow me down. The package looked interesting, and google is my friend. No worries.

Turns out that seaweed knots are a type of kelp. Seaweed is a generic term for plants harvested from the ocean. LOT of different varieties.

I found a few recipes, and the following is slightly different from the one that looked best. Added more garlic (no surprise there, right?) and soy sauce — plus added sesame oil, as it gives it a nice flavor.

Garlicky Seaweed Knots

• 3 cups seaweed knots, rinsed
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 3 to 6 cloves garlic, pressed
• 2 Tbsp white vinegar
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil

Soak the seaweed knots in several changes of cold water. This removes most of the salt.

Boil 3 quarts of water and add the knots. Boil for 12 minutes and drain.

Heat wok over medium heat until just starting to smoke. Add oil and swirl to coat. Add seaweed knots and toss and stir for a few seconds. Stir in garlic. Add vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, & sesame oil; toss and stir for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Refrigerate for 8 hours. This can be served cold or at room temperature.