Sea cucumbers
Not to be confused with vegetables—they’re not—sea cucumbers are actually marine animals often found in Asian cuisine, highly prized as an excellent source of nutrients, amino acids, and antioxidants. Low in calories and fat but high in protein, sea cucumbers keep your body feeling full although you are eating less and they also stabilise your blood sugar levels. Research also shows that sea cucumbers have anti-inflammatory properties as well as antimicrobial properties, while others have found substances in sea cucumbers that can help fight cancer cells and improve your overall heart and liver health.
You can easily find sea cucumbers in their dried form, which can be rehydrated and added to soups, stews, and stir-fries. Their slippery and gooey texture is best partnered with strong flavours from other ingredients, such as meats, seafood, or spices. Treat yourself to a health boost by either braising them with fish maw and winter melon or stir-frying them with Chinese cabbage and shiitake mushrooms.