Steamed with sea salt

Steamed with sea salt is a classic Chinese appetizer where fresh ingredients, often seafood like clams or oysters, are gently steamed and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt to highlight their natural flavors. It's a simple, elegant dish from coastal regions like Guangdong and Fujian, prized for its clean, briny taste. The focus is on the quality of the ingredients rather than complex sauces.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is typically low in carbohydrates and fat, making it a light, protein-rich option. The key nutrients include lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids (if using seafood), and essential minerals like zinc and selenium, with a rough ballpark of 150-250 calories per serving depending on the main ingredient.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	45 kcal
Protein	2.5 g
Carbs	8 g
Fat	0.5 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	400 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin K	80 µg
Vitamin A	200 µg
Folate	60 µg
Iron	1.5 mg
Calcium	50 mg
Magnesium	25 mg

Per 1 cup (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, this preparation method reflects the Chinese culinary philosophy of 'xian' (鲜), which emphasizes preserving and enhancing the inherent freshness and umami of ingredients. Nutritionally, steaming is one of the healthiest cooking techniques, as it minimizes nutrient loss compared to frying or boiling.