If you’re on the hunt for a new leafy green to add to your diet, look no further than mustard greens. Packed with vitamins and minerals, mustard greens are a nutritious and budget-friendly addition to any meal. Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook mustard greens so that you can enjoy their rich, tangy flavor at home.
What are Mustard Greens?
Mustard greens are a type of leafy green vegetable that comes from the same family as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. They have a bold, peppery flavor with a slightly bitter edge, and are commonly used in Southern and Asian cuisines. Mustard greens are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins A, C, K, and folate, as well as minerals such as calcium and potassium.
How to Prepare Mustard Greens
Before cooking mustard greens, it’s important to properly clean and prepare them. Here’s how to do it:
1. Rinse the mustard greens under cold, running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Remove the tough stems from the leaves by cutting them off with a sharp knife or tearing them off with your hands.
3. Chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
How to Cook Mustard Greens
There are many ways to cook mustard greens, depending on your preference and the recipe you’re using. Here are a few popular methods:
1. Sauteed Mustard Greens
Sauteed mustard greens are quick, easy, and delicious. Here’s how to do it:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 clove of minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
3. Add the chopped mustard greens and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stir the greens until they are wilted and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve hot as a side dish or use as a filling for a sandwich or wrap.
2. Mustard Greens Salad
Mustard greens add a nice, peppery kick to any salad. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
– 4 cups of chopped mustard greens
– 1/2 cup of chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup of diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped mustard greens, red onion, and cucumber.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve.
3. Mustard Greens Soup
Mustard greens lend themselves well to a hearty, flavorful soup. This recipe is vegetarian friendly but can easily be made with chicken broth instead of vegetable broth:
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chopped mustard greens
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 can of white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped mustard greens and saute until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, white beans, and dried thyme.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or croutons if desired.
Mustard Greens FAQ
1. Are mustard greens good for you?
Yes, mustard greens are a nutritious vegetable that is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals.
2. How do you store mustard greens?
To store mustard greens, wrap them in damp paper towels or a plastic bag and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can you eat mustard greens raw?
Yes, mustard greens can be eaten raw in salads or as a garnish, but they can be slightly tough and bitter.
4. How do you make mustard greens less bitter?
To make mustard greens less bitter, try blanching them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before cooking, or adding a pinch of sugar or honey to the recipe.