Everything you should probably know about these versatile, peppery greens.
Cheng Yuzheng/Getty Images
What are mustard greens, you ask?
Mustard greens are a leafy,cruciferous vegetablein the same family askale, cabbage, and arugula.
Photo:Cheng Yuzheng/Getty Images
Keep reading for a primer on all things mustard greens, including how to cook with them at home.
What Are Mustard Greens?
Mustard greens vary in color, from purple to dark green or red-tinged, depending on the variety.
Christopher Baker
The leaves can be flat or frilly, but are typically broad, with ruffled edges.
Flavor-wise, they have a very distinctive, peppery taste, akin to arugula.
Some people compare the flavor tohorseradishpunchy and spicy.
Mustard Greens With Ham.Photo: Diana Rattray
Thanks to their assertive flavor, mustard greens stand up well to other strong flavors, such asgarlicandonion.
Theyre also a good source offiber, which is important for digestion.
Cooking mustard greens mellows their flavor, and brings out their sweetness.
Elise Bauer
They can also be sauteed with aromatics, added to soups, and blitzed into pesto.
For an Asian-inspired version, try addingsesame oilandsoy sauceto the sauteed greens, along withgingerandgarlic.
Thelentilsadd heft and protein, making the stew a complete meal.
The Spruce / Maxwell Cozzi
Serve with cornbread for the full experience.
Finish by tossing the greens with sesame oil and seasoning to taste.
With that, you have a quick, flavorfulside dishthat goes well with a range of meals.
If you want a little spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
