Cetraria
Encyclopedia
Cetraria is a genus of fruticose lichens that associate with green algae as photobionts. Most species are found at high latitudes, occurring on sand or heath. Species have a characteristic "strap-like" form, with spiny lobe edges.
Cetraria islandica, Iceland moss, is one of the few culinary lichens, ground and eaten by Northern Europeans in times of famine.
Another species is used today as a "bulking" agent in garam masala
of traditional Indian cuisine.
Cetraria islandica, Iceland moss, is one of the few culinary lichens, ground and eaten by Northern Europeans in times of famine.
Another species is used today as a "bulking" agent in garam masala
Garam masala
Garam masala is a blend of ground spices common in North Indian and other South Asian cuisines. It is used alone or with other seasonings. The word garam refers to intensity of the spices rather than capsaicin content...
of traditional Indian cuisine.