What Does it Taste Like?

Mustard greens have a bold, peppery flavor that can range from slightly spicy to intensely sharp, depending on their maturity and how they are prepared. Young mustard greens tend to be milder and are perfect for salads, while older leaves develop a stronger mustard-like bite, ideal for cooking. Their texture is crisp and tender when raw, but they become delightfully silky and slightly chewy when cooked, providing a versatile base for various dishes.

Varieties we grow

Red Giant

Red Giant

This variety boasts stunning, large leaves with deep red-purple veins and ruffled edges, creating a visually striking contrast against its dark green backdrop. Its texture is robust and slightly chewy, while the taste delivers a bold, spicy kick with a hint of mustard-like sharpness, making it a flavorful addition to salads, stir-fries, and soups.

Why Should I Eat It?

These vibrant greens are not just a treat for your taste buds; they are a nutritional powerhouse too. Mustard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, providing a significant boost to your immune system, skin health, and bone strength. They are also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and minerals like calcium and potassium, making them an excellent choice for maintaining overall health and wellness.

Mustard Greens

May - November

Imagine a leafy green that combines the robust flavor of mustard with the tender crunch of fresh greens. This is the enchanting world of mustard greens—a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition that deserves a spot in your kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned cook or an adventurous foodie, mustard greens offer a delightful surprise with every bite.

Recommended Storage

How Do I Store It?

Short Term

For short-term storage, wrap mustard greens in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. This method helps maintain their freshness for up to a week.

Long Term

  • Freezing: Blanch the greens in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Pat dry and freeze in airtight bags or containers.
  • Pickling: Create a brine with vinegar, water, salt, and spices, then pack the greens into jars and cover with the brine. Seal and refrigerate for a tangy, preserved treat.
  • Canning: While canning mustard greens is possible, they will end up rather mushy, so we prefer freezing for this leafy green. If you do choose to can them, use a pressure canner to safely can mustard greens, following guidelines to ensure proper preservation and safety.
  • Dehydrating: Dry the greens in a food dehydrator or oven at a low temperature until crisp, then store in an airtight container. Rehydrate as needed for use in soups and stews.
  • How Do I Cook It?

    • Sautéing: Quickly cook mustard greens in olive oil or butter with garlic and a splash of lemon juice for a bright, flavorful side dish.
    • Steaming: Preserve their nutrients and vibrant color by steaming them until just tender, then season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
    • Braising: Slow-cook mustard greens in a flavorful broth with onions, garlic, and a hint of smoked meat or bacon for a comforting, hearty dish.
    • Stir-frying: Add them to your favorite stir-fry recipes for a spicy, peppery kick that pairs well with soy sauce and ginger.
    • Soups: Mustard greens add a delicious, peppery twist to soups. Chop the greens and add them to vegetable, chicken, or bean soups during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Their robust flavor and tender texture enhance the soup, making it more satisfying and nutritious. Try adding them to a classic chicken and vegetable soup or a hearty white bean and sausage soup.
    • Curries: Incorporate mustard greens into your favorite curry recipes for a unique depth of flavor. Their slight bitterness and spicy notes blend beautifully with the rich, aromatic spices of curry. Add chopped mustard greens to the curry sauce and simmer until they are tender. They pair exceptionally well with coconut milk-based curries, such as a Thai green curry, or tomato-based Indian curries like saag aloo.

    What Goes Well With It?

    Mustard greens shine when paired with complementary flavors that balance their peppery intensity. Some of the best pairings include:

    • Citrus: Lemon, lime, or orange juice adds a refreshing acidity that cuts through the greens' spice.
    • Garlic and Onion: These aromatic vegetables enhance the savory notes of mustard greens.
    • Bacon and Ham: The smoky, salty flavors of cured meats complement the greens beautifully.
    • Vinegar: A splash of apple cider or balsamic vinegar adds tanginess and depth.
    • Spices: Mustard greens pair well with cumin, coriander, and red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor.
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