Are you tired of the same old veggies in your diet? Well, have you ever heard of Wintercress? This underappreciated plant has a lot to offer, from its unique taste to its many health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore all things wintercress, including its history, nutritional value, and various uses in cooking. So, whether you’re a seasoned forager or just looking to try something new, keep reading to learn more about this underrated green.
Wintercress (Barbarea vulgaris) is a biennial plant in the mustard family. It has yellow, four-petaled flowers that appear in late spring and early summer. Its leaves are edible and have a peppery flavor. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia but is now naturalized in other parts of the world, such as here in our region the Ozarks.
It is also known as yellow rocket, winter rocket, or bittercress. It is an edible plant that has a bitter taste when eaten raw but can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable. When cooked mush of the bitterness is removed.
Wintercress is a member of the mustard family and grows best in moist, well-drained soil in full sun. The leaves are dark green, deeply lobed, and can reach up to 8 inches long. The flowers are yellow and will bloom throughout the spring and summer. Wintercress is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and is considered a weed in some parts of the world. It is often used as a medicinal herb to treat a variety of ailments. It is also a great food source for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Health Benefits of Wintercress
It is a cool-season perennial herb that offers many health benefits. It is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Wintercress is also high in antioxidants and some polyphenols, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress in the body. Wintercress may help boost the immune system, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. It may also help regulate blood sugar levels, support heart health, and even fight certain types of cancer. Finally, wintercress can be used as a natural remedy for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Nutritional Value
Wintercress is a wild edible herb that has numerous nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. It is rich in dietary fiber and essential minerals like potassium, zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron, and manganese. Wintercress contains a wide variety of antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, wintercress has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Its high levels of dietary fiber can help promote digestive health, and its vitamin C content is beneficial for boosting immunity. Wintercress is also a low-calorie food, making it a great choice for weight loss.
Medicinal Properties
Wintercress has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant to treat a variety of ailments. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as antibacterial and antiviral activities. It has been used to treat colds, flu, skin conditions, and digestive problems. It is also believed to have antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, which may help to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, wintercress is thought to help with liver problems, hypertension, and diabetes. It may also be beneficial for reducing cholesterol levels and improving overall circulation, as well as reducing the risk of heart disease. Wintercress can be taken as a tea, tincture, or extract when used for its medicinal properties.
Culinary Uses for Wintercress
Wintercress is a cruciferous vegetable with a mild, peppery flavor. The leaves, stems, and flowers of wintercress can all be eaten. The leaves and stems are usually cooked, as they are quite bitter when eaten raw. The leaves can be used in salads, soups, and other dishes, or steamed and served as a side dish. The flowers can be added to salads or used as a garnish. Wintercress can also be used to make a variety of sauces and dressings. It can be blended into a pesto-like sauce or used to make a creamy cheese sauce. It can also be used to make a vinaigrette or a simple dressing with oil and vinegar. Wintercress pairs well with other vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. It can also be used in omelets, frittatas, and quiches, or as a topping for pizza. It can even be used in stir-fries, curries, and stews. Overall, wintercress is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Its mild, peppery flavor adds depth and interest to dishes, and its nutritional content makes it a healthy addition to any meal.
Recipes
Wintercress and Mushroom Risotto
Ingredients:
-1 tbsp olive oil
-1 small onion, finely chopped
-2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
-120g risotto rice
-250ml vegetable stock
-50g wintercress, chopped
-50g mushrooms, sliced
-1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the risotto rice and stir to coat in the oil.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked, about 25 minutes.
- Add the wintercress and mushrooms and stir to combine.
- Cook for a further 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are cooked.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season to taste.
- Serve hot.
Wild Wintercress and Apple Salad
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of freshly picked wintercress, chopped
- 2 medium-sized apples, cut into small cubes
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of cream or olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the wintercress, apples, lemon juice, cream or olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Gently mix together until ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Wild Wintercress Quiche
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked wild wintercress, chopped
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pastry crust
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add wild wintercress and cook for another minute, stirring often.
- In a large bowl, combine cheddar cheese, ricotta cheese, eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Add the cooked onion and wintercress to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the pre-made pastry crust.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool before cutting and serving.
Wintercress and Potato Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/3 cup of wild wintercress, chopped
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is softened- about 5 minutes.
- Add the potatoes, black pepper, salt, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
- Add the wild wintercress and chicken or vegetable broth, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove the soup from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it is smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
- Serve the soup warm.
Wild Wintercress Pesto
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh wintercress leaves, tightly packed
- ¼ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of toasted pine nuts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine the wintercress leaves, parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and pine nuts. Pulse until a paste is formed.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
How to Grow Wintercress
Although it can be wild foraged if you can find a patch growing in your area, wintercress is relatively easy to grow in the garden as well. To grow wintercress, start by choosing a location with well-draining, slightly acidic soil, and full sun to partial shade. Sow seeds directly in the garden in the spring after the danger of the last frost has passed, or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep and thin the seedlings to 12-18 inches apart once they emerge. Water regularly and use a mulch to help retain moisture. Wintercress will typically bolt (flower and set seed) in the summer, so harvest the leaves before this happens to ensure maximum flavor. You should also harvest the leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Wintercress is a self-seeding plant, so you should not need to replant each year. If you would like to collect the seeds, wait until the flowers turn brown and the seed pods begin to split open. This happens in late summer to early fall. Cut the stems and place them in a paper bag to finish drying. Once the seeds are dry, store them in a cool, dry place until the following spring.
Ornamental Uses
Wintercress is a popular ornamental plant due to its easy maintenance and attractive foliage. It is an excellent ground cover for shady areas, as it can tolerate low levels of light. It is also drought-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, wintercress is deer resistant, making it a good choice for gardens where deer are a problem. Wintercress is an excellent addition to flower beds, borders, and rock gardens. Its bright yellow flowers can contrast beautifully with other colorful flowers. Its dense foliage can be used to create a low-growing hedge or a textured ground cover. Wintercress can even be used as a container plant, either on its own or in combination with other plants. Wintercress is a beautiful and versatile plant that can be used to enhance any outdoor space. Its low-maintenance nature makes it a great choice for beginner gardeners, and its attractive foliage and flowers make it an excellent addition to any garden.
Conclusion
Wintercress is an incredibly versatile and nutritious green that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It is easy to grow and care for, making it a great addition to any garden. Its unique spicy flavor and crunchy texture make it a great addition to salads, soups, and sandwiches. It is also a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice for anyone looking to add more nutrient-rich food to their diet. Whether you choose to grow wintercress in your garden or buy it at the grocery store, it is sure to be a welcome addition to any meal.
For information on other edible and medicinal plants be sure and visit our blog.
This site has further information on foraging and cooking with wintercress.
FAQs:
Health Benefits of Wintercress:
Q: What is wintercress?
A: Wintercress is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is also known as yellow rocket, upland cress, and creasy greens.
Q: What is the nutritional value of wintercress?
A: Wintercress is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and folate. It also contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that have been linked to various health benefits.
Q: What are the health benefits of wintercress?
A: Wintercress has been shown to improve digestion, boost immunity, lower inflammation, and support cardiovascular health. It may also have anti-cancer properties and help prevent age-related cognitive decline.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of wintercress?
A: Wintercress has been traditionally used as a medicinal herb to treat various ailments, including coughs, colds, and rheumatism. It is also believed to have diuretic and laxative properties.
Culinary Uses for Wintercress:
Q: How can wintercress be used in cooking?
A: Wintercress can be eaten raw in salads or sandwiches, or cooked in soups, stews, and sautés. It has a slightly bitter, peppery flavor that pairs well with citrus, garlic, and butter.
Q: Are there any recipes that use wintercress?
A: Yes, wintercress can be used in a variety of recipes, including wintercress and beet salad, wintercress and garlic soup, and wintercress and goat cheese quiche.
Q: Is wintercress a common ingredient in cooking?
A: Wintercress is not as common as other leafy greens, but it is gaining popularity as a nutritious and flavorful vegetable.
How to Grow Wintercress:
Q: How do you grow wintercress?
A: Wintercress can be grown from seed or transplants in cool weather conditions. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. It can be harvested as soon as the leaves are large enough to eat.
Q: When is the best time to plant wintercress?
A: Wintercress can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest.
Q: Can wintercress be grown indoors?
A: Wintercress can be grown indoors in containers with proper lighting and temperature control.
Ornamental Uses:
Q: Can wintercress be used as an ornamental plant?
A: Wintercress can be used as an ornamental plant in landscaping and garden design. Its bright yellow flowers and lush green foliage make it a popular choice for adding color and texture to outdoor spaces.
Q: What are some landscaping ideas for wintercress?
A: Wintercress can be planted in borders, rock gardens, and containers to create visual interest and contrast. It can also be used as a ground cover or filler plant in larger landscaping projects.