#1 common sorrel
Common Sorrel, also known as Garden Sorrel, is a perennial herb that is widely cultivated for culinary purposes.
Scientific Name: Rumex acetosa
Flavour: Common Sorrel has a tangy and slightly sour flavour, similar to lemon or green apple. The taste is refreshing and adds a zesty note to dishes.
Growing Season: Common Sorrel is a perennial herb that grows during the spring and summer months. It thrives in cooler weather and can be harvested from late spring to early autumn.
Native Region: Common Sorrel is native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Traditional Recipe: Sorrel Soup
Ingredients:
500 grams of fresh sorrel leaves, washed and chopped
1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons of butter or oil
1 liter of vegetable or chicken stock
2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: cream or sour cream for serving
Instructions:
In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir for a minute or two.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender.
Add the chopped sorrel leaves to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes or until the sorrel wilts.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
Return the soup to the pot and reheat gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the sorrel soup hot, optionally garnished with a dollop of cream or sour cream.
Health Properties: Common Sorrel has several health properties. It is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and collagen production. The herb also contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals. Common Sorrel is known to have diuretic and detoxifying properties and has been used in traditional medicine to support digestion and liver health. It is also a good source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
Growing Technique:
Location: Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot in your garden for growing Common Sorrel.
Soil: Common Sorrel prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost before planting.
Planting: Sow Common Sorrel seeds directly into the prepared soil in early spring, spacing them about 15-20 centimeters apart. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently.
Maintenance: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Remove any weeds around the sorrel plants to prevent competition. Common Sorrel is relatively low maintenance and does not require frequent fertilization.
Harvesting: Harvest the leaves when they are young and tender, using a pair of scissors or pruning shears. Cut the leaves near the base of the plant, leaving some leaves to continue growing. Regular harvesting will encourage fresh growth.
Winter Care: Common Sorrel is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures. However, in regions with severe winters, you can protect the plants with a layer of mulch.