Watercress, known as yellowcress or simply cress, is a cruciferous vegetable in America. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, turnips, Brussels sprouts, kale, mustard greens, and collard greens.
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, watercress is a versatile ingredient used in salads, soups, and sandwiches. With its peppery flavor, this nutritious leafy green is packed with antioxidants and minerals such as iron and calcium, promoting overall health and well-being. Additionally, watercress is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a popular choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale), which is sometimes also called yellowcress, or simply cress, is a cruciferous vegetable in the family Brassicaceae, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, turnips and Brussels sprouts, as well as kale, mustard greens and collard greens.
What do Asians call watercress?
Watercress is known as “西洋菜” in Cantonese or “xī yáng cài” in Mandarin, by Asians. It is a super healthy vegetable that is commonly overlooked due to a lack of knowledge on how to prepare it.
1. Watercress is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to salads or soups.
2. It has a peppery flavor that adds a unique taste to dishes.
3. Watercress is easy to grow and can be a sustainable food source.
4. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine for its nutritional benefits.
How long does watercress last?
Watercress lasts indefinitely when placed in water, as it continues to grow roots and thrive in that environment. If you place watercress bought from the store in a bowl of water, it will establish roots and continue to grow. This allows you to have a continuous supply of fresh watercress in your home.
Is watercress like arugula?
No, watercress is not like arugula. Unlike arugula, watercress grows with its leaves and stems outside the water. If you place watercress from the supermarket in a bowl of water, it will develop roots and continue to grow in the water.
1. Watercress has a peppery flavor similar to arugula.
2. Both watercress and arugula belong to the Brassicaceae family.
3. Watercress is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K and calcium.
4. Watercress is commonly used in salads and sandwiches for its unique taste and health benefits.
What do Americans call water cress?
Americans call watercress simply watercress. In Cantonese, it is known as sai yeung choi, and in Mandarin, it is xī yáng cài. This super healthy vegetable is often underrated due to a lack of knowledge on how to prepare it. To enjoy its benefits, watercress can be added raw to salads, sautéed with garlic, or used in soups and smoothies. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
What can I do with lots of watercress?
With plenty of watercress, you can let it grow over stones quickly, providing a spot for koi and other fish to access it easily. Simply place the stem in shallow water under a rock or gravel, and you’ll notice growth in approximately three weeks.
1. Keep the water level consistent to ensure optimal growth.
2. Trim any excess growth to maintain a tidy appearance.
3. Monitor for pests or diseases that may affect the watercress.
Are nasturtiums and watercress the same thing?
Nasturtiums and watercress are not the same thing. Watercress belongs to the genus Nasturtium, but the common nasturtium is different. Botanists also name it Roripa or Radicula. Cultivated watercress has various common names like eker, biller, bilure, rib cress, brown cress, teng tongue, long tails, and well grass.
Is watercress and Nasturtium the same thing?
Watercress and Nasturtium are not the same. Arugula is the closest match to watercress in terms of taste and nutrition, with a mild and peppery flavor profile similar to watercress.
1. Nasturtium is a flowering plant known for its edible flowers and peppery leaves.
2. Watercress is a leafy green vegetable with a similar peppery taste to arugula.
3. Both watercress and arugula are rich in vitamins and nutrients, making them excellent additions to a healthy diet.
What is the difference between watercress and cress?
Watercress and cress differ in their preferred growing conditions. Watercress thrives in light shade but can also grow in sunny areas with wet soil or compost. When cultivating watercress indoors, ensure it is placed in a bright location close to a window. For successful growth, maintain moist soil or compost for watercress.
Additional tips for growing watercress:
1. Regularly water the plant to keep the soil consistently moist.
2. Consider using a container with good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
3. Provide sufficient airflow to avoid humidity buildup.
4. Consider fertilizing occasionally with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
What is the difference between garden cress and watercress?
Garden cress and watercress are two different types of plants. Garden cress belongs to the Lepidium sativum species, while watercress is classified under the Nasturtium officinale species. Garden cress has a slightly peppery flavor and is often used in salads and garnishes. On the other hand, watercress has a milder taste and is usually found growing in water or wet soil environments. Both are nutritious greens packed with vitamins and minerals.
Can I grow watercress in my garden?
Yes, you can grow watercress in your garden. Watercress can be grown easily at home, offering fresh, peppery leaves at a lower cost than buying them at the store. Contrary to common beliefs, you don’t need a stream in your garden to cultivate watercress.
1. Choose a shady spot with moist soil.
2. Plant watercress seeds or seedlings in shallow water.
3. Regularly water and harvest the leaves for a continuous supply of fresh watercress.
Can watercress grow underwater?
Yes, watercress can grow underwater. To grow watercress in aquaponics, start by getting watercress seeds and place them on cotton wool or hemp fibers at the bottom of a floating raft. This setup supports the growth of watercress plants submerged in water.
1. Obtain watercress seeds
2. Prepare a floating raft lined with cotton wool or hemp fibers
3. Place seeds on the fibers
4. Submerge the raft in water
How long does it take to grow watercress hydroponically?
It typically takes 3 to 5 weeks to grow watercress hydroponically. You can enjoy your own supply of fresh and peppery watercress at home without the need for a stream in your garden. This method is cost-effective and convenient for growing this nutritious green vegetable. Here are some key tips for successful hydroponic watercress cultivation:
1. Provide ample water and light for optimal growth.
2. Maintain the water pH between 6.5 and 7.
3. Harvest the outer leaves first to promote continuous growth.
4. Monitor for any signs of pests or diseases and take prompt action to address them.
How long does it take for watercress to grow?
Watercress typically grows quite rapidly when its stem is placed in shallow water under a rock or gravel. You can expect to see growth within about three weeks. This plant’s quick development makes it a popular choice for koi and other fish to enjoy as part of their diet.
Is homegrown watercress safe to eat?
Yes, homegrown watercress is safe to eat. When watercress tissue is damaged, it produces PEITC, giving it a hot peppery taste. Although liked by many, including myself, PEITC has been found toxic to various invertebrates.
1. Watercress is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
2. Always wash homegrown watercress thoroughly before consumption to remove any potential contaminants.
3. Avoid consuming watercress from contaminated water sources to prevent any health risks.
How fast can watercress grow underwater?
Watercress can grow underwater by placing its stems in a jar of water in the refrigerator. Cover the leaves loosely with a perforated bag to maintain freshness. This method can keep watercress fresh for a couple of days.
1. Watercress typically grows about 1 to 2 inches per week underwater.
2. It requires a consistent water temperature of around 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
3. Ensure to change the water every day to prevent bacterial growth and maintain freshness.
4. Watercress can also be grown in wet soil or in hydroponic systems for continuous harvest.
Is watercress harmful to fish?
Watercress is not harmful to fish. It can be enjoyed in different ways, such as in pasta dishes, as a condiment with roasted vegetables, or as a dressing for salads like beetroot. Additionally, watercress can be used to make pesto for spreading on toast with blue cheese toppings. It is safe and nutritious for fish to consume.
Can you grow store bought watercress?
Yes, you can grow store-bought watercress at home. Watercress grown in stores usually has its roots immersed in water to keep it fresh. To grow your own watercress from store-bought stems:
1. Cut off the bottom of the stems and place them in a container with water.
2. Keep the container in a well-lit area, changing the water regularly.
3. Once roots develop, plant the stems in a pot with soil.
4. Ensure the soil stays moist for optimal growth.
In conclusion, watercress is commonly known as a type of aquatic plant with crisp, peppery leaves and is simply referred to as “watercress” in America. Its distinct flavor and numerous health benefits make it a popular choice for salads, sandwiches, soups, and various other dishes. Understanding the different names and varieties of this versatile plant can enhance culinary experiences and promote overall well-being. Experimenting with watercress in your cooking can add a flavorful and nutritious twist to your meals, offering a fresh and vibrant touch to your favorite recipes. So next time you’re at the market, don’t forget to pick up some watercress and get creative in the kitchen!