Mustard Greens – All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What are mustard greens?

Mustard greens come from the mustard plant. Also known as brown mustard, Indian mustard, vegetable mustard, and Chinese mustard, mustard greens are a part of the Brassica genus of vegetables.

Mustard greens are usually enjoyed steamed, boiled, stir-fried, and sometimes pickled. They have a spicy, bitter flavor. You may also see them as a condiment for several dishes, including as a topping for hamburgers and hot dogs.

There are a few varieties of mustard greens, including:

• Scarlet frills
• Red giant
• Rub streaks
• Green wave
• Southern giant
• Mizuna
• Purple wave
• Carolina broadleaf

Where did mustard greens originate from?

Mustard greens date back as early as the 5th century B.C. in India when they were mentioned in a story about Gautama Buddha. They’re believed to be native to the entire old world, from Asia to the Middle East to Europe. However, it’s unknown just when the mustard green plant was domesticated.

Some sources say the Han Dynasty ate mustard greens in China. Apparently, the first varietal differentiation of mustard greens was cultivated near Sichuan in China.

It’s also believed that the Romans may have eaten them whole or ground them up. Today, Nepal and Canada are the world’s largest producers of mustard greens.

What is the nutritional value of mustard greens?

Mustard greens are some of the most nutritious greens you can get your hands on. They’re low in calories and provide 2g of protein in each cup (56g).

This vegetable also has less than 1g of fat, 3g of carbs, and 2g of fiber. Not to mention, they only have 1g of sugar. Mustard greens also have the following nutrients:

• Potassium
• Calcium
• Iron
• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
• Magnesium
• Thiamine (vitamin B1)
• Copper
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B6
• Selenium
• Zinc
• Niacin
• Folate
• Phosphorus

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How are mustard greens grown?

You can grow mustard greens as long as you have the right type of soil. They thrive in fertile, sandy, and well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 and 7.5.

You’ll also want to make sure they’ve got plenty of sunlight. Some varieties can handle a little shade, but most varieties prefer temperatures between 50 and 75°F.

When you’re ready to start planting, start them indoors about 4 weeks before the date of the last frost (if you want them to be ready early in the year). If you’d rather plant in the fall, direct sow them as the temperatures are just starting to cool, allowing about 4 to 6 weeks before the first frost.

In warmer climates, you’ll probably want to start seedlings indoors in the summer until the weather cools down a little. Then, slowly transition the plants. You can do that by bringing them outside once the temperature cools down.

You also have the option of sowing the seeds directly outside from early spring up until fall (in most areas). If that’s the route you’re taking, plant the mustard green seeds in a shallow furrow about 1/2in deep with 12 seeds per foot for the baby greens.

For full-sized plants, try to sow them every 6 to 12in with 12in between each row.

When are mustard greens in season?

The peak season for mustard greens is fall through the spring, but mustard greens can be found all year long at your local grocery store. You might also be able to find them at your local farmer’s market or specialty Asian market.

How do you pick mustard greens at the grocery store?

When buying mustard greens at the grocery store, look for loose greens and leaves that are perky and intact. If the leaves come in heads, aim for tight heads with little to no damage on the outer leaves. Peeling a layer or two to check might be a good idea (if you’re at home).

If you are looking to have your groceries delivered, you can easily shop for mustard greens via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products. Shop for mustard greens.

How to store mustard greens

Mustard greens can be stored in the fridge for 2 to 3 days and in the freezer for 10 to 12 months. To store them properly in the fridge, put them in a plastic bag and avoid washing them until you’re ready to use them.

To freeze them, wash the greens thoroughly and cut off the woody stems. You can also blanch them for 2 minutes and then chill them quickly in ice-cold water.

Another alternative is to drain off any excess moisture, package them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze them immediately.

How to tell if mustard greens are bad

Avoid leaves that look brown or yellow. You also don’t want leaves that are torn, slimy, wilted, or created.

Greens that are close to spoiling might start turning a yellowish color and become a little slimy. They might also have a foul odor. Give your mustard greens a good sniff before buying to make sure they have a fresh, natural aroma. If not, they may be on the verge of spoiling, and you should avoid them.

What can I substitute for mustard greens?

You can substitute a few leafy vegetables for mustard greens, including:

• Kale
• Fenugreek leaves
• Collard greens
• Arugula
• Swiss chard
• Spinach leaves
• Escarole
• Chinese broccoli
• Dandelion greens
• Rapini
• Turnip greens
• Chinese mustard greens (gai choi)

Find mustard greens near you

Mustard greens can be a great way to add a little something healthy to your diet. If you’re ready to stock up on some mustard greens for your latest recipe, get fresh produce delivery with Instacart using same-day delivery!

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