Irish moss, also referred to as sea moss, is a species of red algae found along the northern Atlantic. Chondrus crispus has a history of traditional herbal use throughout Europe and holds a place within Irish folklore. Nowadays, this “superfood” seaweed is consumed for its vitamin and mineral content. Irish moss naturally contains carrageenan, a substance widely used for its thickening and stabilizing properties. Sprinkle Irish moss on vegetarian dishes, add it to broths, or boil with milk to create a jelly-like dessert dish. Irish moss is a tough and stringy red, yellow, or purple seaweed growing up to 6 inches (250 mm) high on rocks in tidal pools along the northern Atlantic. Tide pools are an isolated pocket of seawater in the ocean’s intertidal zone. It is harvested to make carrageenan, a thickening agent for jellies, puddings, and soups, and is a traditional herbal remedy in Ireland.
