The 5 Greatest Watercress Substitutes

Watercress can give a meal a lot of flavor and punch.

The juicy and spicy herb is not only tasty but also nutritious.

But it isn’t available everywhere, so what can you do instead? The good thing about herbs is that there are many different sorts that may be used as a replacement.

Have a look at the 5 finest watercress substitutes in the sections below.

What exactly is watercress?

It is a plant native to Europe and Asia that belongs to the Brassicaceae family of plants.

Watercress, while considered a weed in many locations, is one of the plants that people have consumed from ancient times.

Yet, it was not until the early nineteenth century that it was commercially grown.

Specialists believe it to be one of the healthiest herbs, and it is currently produced in a variety of locations.

Watercress is low in fat, carbohydrates, and calories while being abundant in vitamins and minerals.

According to research, it has several health advantages.

Having a peppery and somewhat spicy taste, this little herb may help avoid a variety of health problems.

If you want to eat it but can’t locate it, you may replace the following.

5 Greatest Watercress Substitutes

Since it is related to cabbage, you will be astonished at how many plants or herbs you may use for watercress.

1 cup arugula

This plant is also known as roquette, rucola, or garden rocket.

It is an excellent alternative for watercress since it is an edible plant from the same family.

It grows quickly and has a somewhat bitter, peppery taste.

When the leaves develop, the temperature rises. If you don’t want too much heat, look for young leaves.

They have a delicate and mild flavor. It may be eaten fresh or cooked, and it goes well with salads and soups.

You may eat it on its own or combine it with other ingredients to produce recipes.

Matured leaves are more suited to meals that need cooking.

Nevertheless, only add after your meal is nearly done, not at the start.

The green leafy vegetable is high in nutrients such as vitamins, calcium, and potassium.

If the watercress is still young, use a comparable amount.

Appropriate ratio:

• 5 watercress leaves Equals 5 young arugula leaves (only 3 if the leaves are developed) or.
• 50g watercress equals 30g arugula.

2 spinach leaves

Spinach does not belong to the same plant family as watercress.

Nonetheless, it is fresh, somewhat crunchy, and packed with health benefits.

When watercress is unavailable, it might therefore be an excellent substitute.

It has a pleasant, juicy flavor that may become bitter when wilted.

Spinach may be eaten fresh or cooked.

Spinach is a common green vegetable that is used in Asian and Indian cuisine.

Add some chili flakes to acquire the peppery flavor when replacing it for watercress.

Spinach may be added to salads or eaten with dips and sauces.

Smoothies may also be made with fresh greens and, if desired, honey, salt, and lemon.

While shopping for spinach, look for bright green leaves and fresh stems.

Appropriate ratio:

• 10 spinach leaves Equals 10 watercress leaves (add some hot pepper powder for spiciness).

3 Nasturtium Flowers

Nasturtium, an edible plant with vividly colored blossoms, is another potential option for watercress.

It is sometimes known as Indian cress, but should not be mistaken with watercress.

Salads and pastries benefit from the lovely blossoms’ unique taste and look.

But, when replacing watercress, you must use the leaves.

They practically taste the same since nasturtium has a peppery and pungent flavor.

The leaves may be used in salads, sauces, and dips.

You may eat it plain or season it with salt and spices to taste.

It is a nutritious plant, much like the other herbs, and include it in your diet might be advantageous.

Appropriate ratio:

• 25g of watercress equals 25g of nasturtium leaves.

4 Kale

Kale has a love-hate connection with many individuals.

It’s because, despite its health advantages, it tastes awful.

Yet, since they belong to the same plant family, kale may stand in for watercress.

It may be used in soups, stews, and salads. Sauté kale pieces in a skillet if you want to go all out.

Add a bit of salt, a garlic clove, chile flakes, and olive oil to taste. That will be delectable.

Even if you dislike the flavor, there are many reasons to consume kale.

It is high in nutrients like as vitamins, fiber, iron, calcium, and anti-oxidants.

When replacing, use equal parts kale and watercress.

Appropriate ratio:

• 25g of watercress equals 25g of kale.

Dandelion Green 5

Dandelion green, known for its high nutritional content, might be an ideal substitute for watercress.

It is a plant that may be eaten, and every part of it has therapeutic properties.

Dandelions may be eaten in a variety of ways.

The root may be used to create tea, the flower heads can be used to make fritters, and the petals can be used in baking.

Use the leaves of watercress as a substitute in salads. If you don’t like the taste, you can sauté it.

Younger leaves are moderate, but older leaves are bitter. Hence, when you go shopping, try to seek for fresh leaves.

According to research, dandelion may decrease cholesterol, manage blood sugar, and aid in weight reduction.

A good ratio.

• 25g watercress Equals 25g young dandelion green (use less if you have only older leaves or add some sweetener, salt and spices to cut the bitter taste).

Conclusion

You don’t have to worry about running out of watercress when you have so many other wonderful herbs to choose from.

Each one can provide the desired kick, punch, and crunch.

To take your herbs to the next level, add spices and sauces as needed.

Herbs in your diet may help you stay healthy, fit, and active.

Thus, add herbs to your meals on a daily basis.