How to make sea moss gel?

What do you need?

Tools Required:

Fine-mesh sieve
Ceramic or glass bowl (avoid metal containers)
Cling film or kitchen foil
Medium-sized pot
Blender (hand-held blender works perfectly)
Clean jars for storage

Ingredients Required:

2 fresh lemons or limes
Filtered water
Fresh ginger or cinnamon to taste (optional, for added flavour)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 12 hours soaking time)

Step 1

Place dried sea moss in a sieve and rinse thoroughly under running water for 2 minutes.
Transfer the cleaned sea moss to a bowl.
Quarter a lemon or lime, remove the seeds, and squeeze the juice over the sea moss. Add the squeezed wedges to the bowl.
Pour in enough filtered water to completely submerge the sea moss.
Cover the bowl tightly with cling film.
Allow to soak for at least 12 hours.

Step 2

Once the sea moss has absorbed the water and turned white (see image), discard the wedges.
Thoroughly rinse the sea moss under running water.
Transfer it to a cooking pot.

Step 3

Cut fresh wedges of lime or lemon, remove the seeds and squeeze them into the pot.
For subtle flavour: Add cubed ginger (which can be removed later)
For ginger enthusiasts: Grate fresh ginger directly into the sea moss
Add cinnamon and pour in just enough water to cover the moss
Heat on the hob, bring to the boil and simmer for no more than 3 minutes
Allow to cool to room temperature, then remove the citrus wedges and ginger pieces (if using cubed)

Step 4

Blend the sea moss with water until it forms a silky-smooth paste.
Transfer your prepared sea moss gel to clean jars and store in the refrigerator.
Consume within one month. Add 1-2 tablespoons daily to your favourite tea, porridge, smoothie or juice for best results.