When weeding pays off for your health.
How mean is the name weed? So many of the weeds we mention contain great active ingredients that are good for us humans. So does hairy bittercress. It is an inconspicuous plant and rich in vitamins and minerals.
It is considered to promote metabolism, stimulate the appetite, have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. The ideal super plant in winter or spring, when there are not so many seasonal herbs and regional vegetables available.
A great recipe for using watercress in our kitchen is a herb paste. For this, take 100g hairy bittercress (dry weight), 100ml olive oil and 10g salt.
The herb paste is well suited for salads, soups, gschwellti, spaghetti, as a spread or in yoghurt or crème fraîche as a vegetable dip.
- Cut away the hairy bittercress roots and wash the rest of the cress thoroughly and pat dry.
- Mix the ingredients in a blender, starting with a little oil first and then adding the hairy bittercress and adding more oil so that it is thoroughly chopped. Don't forget the salt!
- Fill into sterilised, tightly sealed jars. Press the paste down with a spoon while filling to avoid air pockets. Then smooth it out and cover with a little oil.
The herb paste will keep in the fridge for six months, possibly even longer. Always remove the paste with a clean spoon! Then smooth it out again and, if necessary, cover it with a little oil and put it back in the fridge. Leave the jar at room temperature for as short a time as possible.
As the saying goes: "When your soul needs a holiday, go to the garden."
And you've got your power pack!
E Guete!
