While many are obsessed with hunting for exotic and expensive vegetables, there’s a humble and simple vegetable that is often overlooked – rau ngót. This unassuming vegetable, costing just 5,000 VND per bunch in the market, is a nutritional powerhouse, especially when it comes to its iron content, which surpasses even that of beef.
1. Rau Ngót: A Hardy and Nutritious Vegetable
Rau ngót is exceptionally easy to grow. Simply plant a mature stem in the ground, water it regularly, and it will take root and thrive.
What’s more, rau ngót requires minimal care and fertilization, is resistant to pests and diseases, and can be grown year-round. So, with just a small plot of land, you can easily grow your own supply of this nutritious vegetable for your family.
2. Inexpensive and More Nutritious than Beef
At the market, a bunch of rau ngót typically costs between 4,000 and 6,000 VND, and it’s even cheaper during the rainy season. But don’t let its low price fool you. Nutritional studies have shown that rau ngót has an iron content several times higher than beef, which is renowned for its iron richness.
Notable Nutritional Content of Rau Ngót (per 100g of fresh leaves):
- Iron: 2.7 – 3.5mg (higher than beef, ~2.1mg)
- Vitamin C: 185mg (high, aids in iron absorption)
- Calcium: 169mg
- Phosphorus: 64mg
- Protein: 5.3g – comparable to some types of beans
Rau ngót is also a good source of dietary fiber, beta-carotene, and antioxidants, which boost the immune system, promote healthy skin, and support efficient digestion.
3. The Impressive Health Benefits of Rau Ngót
Blood Enrichment and Anemia Prevention
With its high iron and vitamin C content, rau ngót is an excellent choice for individuals with anemia, postpartum women, the elderly, and children with iron deficiencies.
Detoxification and Heat Relief
Rau ngót has a cooling property, helping to detoxify the liver and cool down the body, especially during hot and humid weather.
Postpartum Care
In traditional Eastern medicine, rau ngót is highly regarded for its ability to promote lactation, expel lochia, and aid in the quick recovery of postpartum mothers.
Constipation Prevention and Intestinal Cleansing
The abundant fiber in rau ngót increases intestinal motility, preventing constipation and supporting a healthy digestive system.
4. Versatile and Delicious: Rau Ngót in the Kitchen
Rau ngót has a sweet and mild flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes:
- Canh rau ngót nấu thịt bằm – a national favorite, loved by all.
- Canh rau ngót tôm khô – aromatic and flavorful.
- Xào rau ngót với tỏi – a simple yet surprisingly delicious side dish.
- Nấu cháo rau ngót cho trẻ nhỏ – iron-rich and easy to digest.
In just under 15 minutes, you can have a nutritious and economical meal on the table.
5. Growing Your Own Rau Ngót: Easier than You Think
You can easily grow rau ngót in your backyard, garden bed, or even a container. Here’s how:
- Cut a semi-mature stem (neither too young nor too old) about 15-20cm long.
- Plant it in loose, moist soil and keep it watered for 1-2 weeks until it takes root.
- After a month, you can harvest the young shoots, and the plant will continue to produce new branches.
With just one planting, you can enjoy a continuous harvest for years without the need to replant.
Rau ngót, despite its ordinary appearance, is a true “golden vegetable” in the modern world. It is easy to grow and care for, packed with more iron than beef, and offers numerous health benefits at almost no cost. If you’re looking for an easy-to-grow, nutritious, and economical vegetable, look no further than rau ngót. Start planting a few stems today, and in a few weeks, you’ll have a vibrant “garden of health” right at your doorstep!
“3 Delicious Dishes with a Familiar Veggie: Unlocking Deep Sleep, Liver Detox, and Body Cleanse Secrets”
Are you seeking natural ways to enhance your sleep, detox your liver, and cleanse your body? Discover three delicious and easy-to-prepare dishes made from a familiar vegetable, offering an array of fantastic health benefits.
6 Fragrant Herbs and Spices to Supercharge Your Health and Longevity
Herbs are an indispensable part of Vietnamese cuisine, adding not just a burst of flavor to our meals but also offering a plethora of health benefits and promoting longevity.
5 Golden Rules for Moms to Create a Fun and Nutritious Menu for Toddlers Aged 1-3
“Parents play a pivotal role in their children’s development, and this includes paying close attention to their nutrition and encouraging exploration and play. Nurturing a child’s natural curiosity and providing them with opportunities to engage in playful learning experiences are essential for their overall growth and well-being.”
The Ultimate Superfood: The Vegetable That’s Worth Its Weight in Gold
This particular plant is a nutritional powerhouse, serving as a culinary delight (similar to the Vietnamese salad staple) and a beauty and health booster.
The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Sour: Unveiling the Secret Ingredient.
For just 8,000 to 10,000 VND, you can enjoy a refreshing glass of sugarcane juice, approximately 500ml with ice. That’s right, for less than the price of a cup of coffee, you can beat the heat with this sweet and healthy treat. But have you ever wondered why vendors often add a slice of citrus, specifically a quất (a type of bitter orange), to your glass of sugarcane juice? It’s more than just a decorative touch – it’s a traditional twist with a burst of flavor!
