Every March and April, flowers bloom and plants sprout. Amidst the vast stretches of green, various wild vegetables are dotted throughout. They are mostly fresh, tender, juicy, and delicious, making them highly popular. So, what wild vegetables are worth trying in the spring?
3 Wild Vegetables Worth Trying in the Spring
I. Toon (Chinese Toon)
Toon is deeply loved by people for its rich fragrance, tender texture, and unique taste. Its comprehensive nutritional value is among the best of all vegetables, earning it the titles "rare dish" and "vegetable from the tree." It is rich in protein, amino acids, various vitamins, and minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc, as well as active components like flavonoids and alkaloids. Among these, its amino acid content reaches 17 types, with a particularly high number of essential amino acids for the human body, ranking it first among wild vegetables like shepherd's purse and bracken. It is beneficial for brain health, regulating blood lipids, softening blood vessels, and lowering blood pressure.
Shredded Pork with Nostoc Flagelliforme
II. Nostoc Flagelliforme (Ground Moss)
Scientifically known as *Nostoc commune*, it is also called ground ear, lichen, or ground fungus. Nostoc flagelliforme is highly nutritious with a rich variety of minerals. Its iron and zinc content are several times higher than that of foods like kelp, nori, spirulina, and fat choy. Additionally, it has a very low fat content and contains a certain amount of dietary fiber.
However, its amino acid content is slightly insufficient. Therefore, it can be consumed with other foods rich in amino acids to complement its nutritional profile.
III. Elm Seeds (Yu Qian)
Elm seeds are the seeds of the elm tree. They are named for their coin-like appearance—small, round, and thin. China has a long history of eating elm seeds; they were used to stave off hunger during lean years and served as a vegetable in abundant years, suitable for all ages. The name "Yu Qian" sounds like "yu qian," meaning "surplus money," leading to the belief that eating them can bring financial surplus.
Modern medical research shows that the mineral iron in elm seeds is 1 time that of spinach, and its calcium content is 3 times that of spinach, making it a standout among fresh vegetables. Moreover, elm seeds do not contain oxalic acid, so the calcium and iron they contain are more easily absorbed and utilized by the body, which is beneficial for children's growth and development. Elm seeds are also rich in dietary fiber, which can improve intestinal health, slow down the absorption of glucose, and reduce the post-meal rise in blood sugar, helping to manage diabetes. For those trying to lose weight, it is an excellent weight-loss product and a delicious dish for the dinner table.
Pepper chopper head