Nutritional components of cress
Cress is similar to watercress in appearance, but its leaves are larger and longer. This vegetable is rich in nutrients and very beneficial for human health. However, its taste is unfamiliar to many people, so it is often overlooked.
In traditional medicine, 100g of fresh cress contains 6.35g of protein, 1.7g of fat, 8g of carbohydrates, 1.9g of fiber, 3.75g of minerals (phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, and carotene), as well as vitamins B1, B2, PP, and C.
Furthermore, cress leaves contain more nutrients than its flowers and fruits (in terms of weight). They have more vitamin C (7 times more than oranges), vitamin A (4 times more than carrots), calcium (4 times more than milk), iron (4 times more than sticky rice), protein (double the amount found in yogurt), and potassium (3 times more than ripe bananas).
Cress is 4 times richer in calcium than milk
Considerations when consuming cress
Although cress is nutrient-rich, it should not be eaten excessively due to its high content of calcium and vitamin C. Consuming too much can lead to an excess of calcium and vitamin C, which can have adverse effects on your health. Avoid eating cress in the evening to ensure a good night’s sleep, as it can cause insomnia.
Pregnant women and individuals with kidney issues should also avoid consuming cress. Similarly, those with stomach problems should be cautious and limit their consumption.
Delicious minced meat cress soup recipe
Cress soup with the combination of sweet minced meat and slightly bitter cress leaves will quickly become a favorite dish for your family. The refreshing taste of this soup will help you cool down during hot summer days.
Minced meat cress soup
Ingredients:
– 200g cress
– 200g minced pork
– 1.5 liters of water
– Basic seasonings, including cooking oil, shallots, seasoning powder, and salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Separate the leaves of the cress, soak them in salted water for 5 minutes, then rinse with water twice.
Step 2: Wash the minced pork, finely chop it. To save time, you can buy pre-minced pork at the supermarket.
Step 3: Peel and wash the shallots, then finely chop them.
Step 4: Heat the oil in a pot, add the shallots, stir-fry until fragrant and golden.
Step 5: Add the minced pork and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Once the pork is cooked and firm, add water to the pot and bring it to a boil.
Step 7: As soon as the water boils, add the cress and cook for about 1-2 minutes, then turn off the heat. During this time, season with seasoning powder and salt to taste. Be careful not to overcook the cress, as it cooks quickly.
While cress is highly nutritious, it should not be consumed in excess due to its high calcium and vitamin C content. Overconsumption can lead to adverse health effects. It is recommended to avoid eating cress in the evening as it may cause insomnia. Pregnant women and individuals with kidney issues are advised to refrain from consuming cress. Additionally, those with stomach problems should exercise caution and limit their intake.
Cress can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals. For example, you can try the following recipe for minced meat cress soup:
Minced Meat Cress Soup
Ingredients:
- 200g cress
- 200g minced pork
- 1.5 liters of water
- Basic seasonings: cooking oil, shallots, seasoning powder, and salt
Instructions:
- Separate cress leaves, soak in salted water for 5 minutes, then rinse twice.
- Wash and finely chop the minced pork.
- Peel and finely chop the shallots.
- Heat oil in a pot, add shallots, and stir-fry until fragrant and golden.
- Add minced pork and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
- Once the pork is cooked, add water and bring to a boil.
- Add cress and cook for 1-2 minutes, then season and turn off the heat. Do not overcook the cress.
