CARRAGHEEN

or Irish Mo , or Pearl Mo , a species of small edible seaweed, varying from greenish-yellow to purplish brown, named after Carragheen, Water ford County, Ireland, which is found on the coasts of the British Islands, rocky shores of continental lurope, and the eastern shores of the northern United States and Canada. Similar varieties abound also on other parts of the American coast-line. The carragheen of domestic use is obtained principally from New Hampshire and Ma achusetts, the harvest extending from May to September. After gathering, the plants are washed in salt water and spread on the beach to dry and bleach, the proce being repeated several times. As marketed, carragheen is in pieces of from two to three inches to a foot in length, cartilaginous and flexible in texture, branching in shape, and varying from a reddish brown to straw-color or white. The greater part of the supply is employed in the clarifying of malt beverages. The remainder is retailed through druggists and grocers, the best qualities packed in half-pound and pound boxes.; To make a pleasing beverage, which is considered also a good demulcent for coughs, a scant ounce of carragheen is placed in a quart to three pints of water, gently heated until the liquid is sirupy in consistence and then strained, milk and sugar, or sugar and lemon juice, being added to taste. In the preparation of blane-mange or jelly, a larger quantity is required..\ good receipt is to soak a small cupful in cold water for about five minutes, then tie it in a cheese-cloth bag, place i a double-hoiler with a quart of milk, add a little salt, and cook for a half hour. When done, take the bag out, flavor the liquid with lemon or vanilla extract and pour into a mold or small cups, previously wet with cold water. When the jelly is set, it can be eaten with sugar and cream, or fruit, as desired. For its food value see the general article on SEAWEED.