Last night we went to an Okinawan Restaurant. I had the glorious experience of enjoying Umibudo (Sea Grapes) also known as Caulerpa Lentillifera or Green Caviar. They are a type of seaweed with no distinctive taste. There are many different ways to eat Green Caviar but the most simple way is to dip strands of it in vinegar sauce. With each bite the tiny grape-like lumps pop and spread a light wave of salt and vinegar in your mouth. It was one of the most delightful sensations my vegetarian taste buds have had in a long time!
I hope the oceans in Okinawa stay clean and beautiful so that we can continue to enjoy delights like this! There is some news that the US Marines want to build another air base right on top of Okinawa's coral reef and of course the Japanese government is doing what it does best, pretending that nothing is wrong... It goes without saying that the consequences are disturbing not just for the immediate surroundings (and my appetite for Sea Grapes) but on a global scale as well.
