Dulse: a study in colour
As I walk around the exposed reefs around Falmouth Cornwall, it is difficult to miss the earthy, deep-red tones of dulse popping out against the grey rock and brown kelp. I feel it perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Its rich tones of burgundy, crimson, and rust mirror the warm, fiery foliage of October trees. These hues often find their way into my work, allowing me to evoke the quiet beauty of the season, with dulse’s deep reds becoming a symbol of transformation and warmth.
Where and when to find
When: Spring to Autumn
Where: middle to lower shores, including tidal areas down to 20m. Found in both exposed and sheltered areas.Loves to grown off kelp stems.
Recipe: Dulse and kale crisps
Taken from The Seaweed Cookbook by Caroline Warwick-Evans and Tim Berkel
A book: Seaweed Foraging in Cornwall
When I have time, I use this little book to identify, responsibly forage and cook seaweed like dulse. The worn edges of this book are testament to it’s good use, when it is most likely thrown in a bag along with wet swimsuits, a towel and a snorkel.