Shepherd's purse

Capsella bursa-pastoris

leaf

Leaves tasting of cabbage and hazelnut, chopped into Shanghai dumplings and wontons.

Origin

Europe, cultivated in China

Season (United States)

February to April

Preparation

The leaf rosette is kept, picked before flowering; it is washed well, blanched for a minute, then chopped.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitrates · ChlorophyllIn small amounts, not counted Pungent glucosinolates

Did you know?

In China it is grown in beds like lettuce, while Europe pulls it up as a weed.