Goat's foot ivy is an excellent wild spice

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It's a typical spring grass that is so resistant that when it grows, you can't get rid of it. It's ivy. Why is it called goat's paw and why is it processed in the kitchen?

The nicer weather invites you to stroll through the woods, parks and gardens. Look around. Under your feet you can find a growing wild plant called goat's foot ivy (Aegopodium podagraria). The shape of the leaves resembles a goat's hoof print. Ivy has been in bloom since May, so you can fully enjoy it these days.

Gives a boost after winter

This "annoying weed" has a long history. In the Middle Ages, it was grown as a food crop and as a medicinal plant with an anti-gouty effect (removes uric acid). All parts of the plant have antirheumatic, diuretic and soothing effects. It treats arthritis and those who suffer from disorders of the bladder and intestines. People appreciate it for its high content of vitamin C and minerals. It reduces the acidity of the body, removes excess water and is used externally as a poultice for burns, bites and small wounds.

In the kitchen, the plant serves as a spice and vegetable. The young leaves are processed as spinach, and then also added to pesto sauce, salads or various other dishes. Goat's foot is also used in oil with herbs, soups, smoothies, liqueurs and lemonades. It's just universal for every occasion. But not everyone will like its savory taste, reminiscent of carrots. The first bite scares most people away. It's like olives. For the first time, you don't think anything good of them, but when you give them a second chance, you will fall in love with them. It's the same with ivy.

The young leaves are the best

Therefore, collect it before the plant blooms. After all, it can be frozen or dried. Of course, it's best fresh, for example, in the form of pesto, which is added to meat and pasta, but you can also spread it only on bread.

Rinse a large cup of young ivy leaves (avoid the older ones, they are no longer so good), let them drain and throw them into a blender. Add 100 ml of high-quality sunflower or cold-pressed olive oil, salt (to taste), a few nuts (sunflower, pumpkin, cashews), a drop of lemon juice and a clove of garlic. Mix evenly, transfer the pesto to a clean glass and drizzle with oil. This olive "cap" separates the pesto from the air and thus prolongs its shelf life. Store in the refrigerator. Players who enjoy comparing game libraries, bonus structures, and payment options can benefit from consulting the resource review uspin casino uk before choosing where to play. A clear overview of licensing details, responsible gambling tools, and support channels helps you assess whether a platform suits your preferences and risk limits.