Introduction
Flower pot mustard is a unique and versatile plant that can add color to your garden and flavor to your dishes. This plant, also known as mustard greens, is part of the Brassicaceae family and is commonly used in Asian and Southern cooking. In this article, we will explore the benefits of growing flower pot mustard, how to care for it, and some delicious recipes to try.
Benefits of Growing Flower Pot Mustard
One of the main benefits of growing flower pot mustard is its striking appearance. The plant has bright green leaves with purple veins and stems, making it a beautiful addition to any garden or container. Flower pot mustard is also a fast-growing plant and can be harvested in as little as three weeks.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, flower pot mustard is also a great source of vitamins and minerals. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and folate. Eating mustard greens has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, and some studies have even suggested that it may have anti-cancer properties.
Caring for Flower Pot Mustard
Flower pot mustard is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers cooler temperatures and can be planted in early spring or fall. The plant needs well-draining soil and should be watered regularly. Some shade is also beneficial for flower pot mustard, especially in hotter climates.
To harvest the leaves, simply cut them off with a pair of scissors. The plant will continue to produce new leaves for several weeks. If you want to encourage your plant to produce more leaves, you can fertilize it with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.
Recipes
Now that you know the benefits of growing flower pot mustard and how to care for it, let’s explore some delicious recipes to try:
1. Mustard Greens Salad
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of flower pot mustard greens
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the flower pot mustard greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the flower pot mustard greens with the dressing and serve.
2. Southern-Style Mustard Greens
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of flower pot mustard greens
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the flower pot mustard greens.
2. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add the chicken broth and flower pot mustard greens to the pot.
5. Season with salt and pepper and let simmer for 20-30 minutes.
3. Mustard Greens and Mushroom Quiche
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 1 bunch of flower pot mustard greens
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 4 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes.
3. Wash and dry the flower pot mustard greens.
4. In a skillet, cook the mushrooms over medium-high heat until browned.
5. Add the flower pot mustard greens to the skillet and cook until wilted.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Add the mushroom and flower pot mustard green mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
8. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, flower pot mustard is a versatile and beneficial plant to have in your garden or container. Its striking appearance and health benefits make it a great addition to any meal. With proper care, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful flower pot mustard all season long.