Arugula Hydroponic
Estimated Inventory, 12 ct : 0
Description/Taste
Hydroponic arugula is more delicate in texture, flavor and appearance than rocket and wild arugula, however it has more succulent and nutrient dense leaves. With lobed leaves that reach about three or four inches in length, arugula offers an herbaceous, peppery flavor with nuances of nuts and mustard. The plants yield more consistent harvests because of their controlled growing environments. Roots are not forced to search through soil for nutrients and water allowing the plants to grow faster, larger and healthier.
Seasons/Availability
Hydroponic arugula is available year-round.
Current Facts
Hydroponic arugula is greenhouse grown directly in water and arrives alive, its roots still in tact with the nutrients it was provided with for livelihood. Arugula is scientifically known as Eruca sativa and is a member of the mustard or Brassicaceae family.
Nutritional Value
Arugula is a nutrient rich leafy green providing vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, riboflavin, copper, iron, zinc, folate and potassium. Cruciferious vegetables such as arugula are also high in antioxidant phytochemicals and rich in sulfur containing compounds known as glucosinolates which have been shown to have detoxifying properties and may be beneficial in the prevention of certain types of cancer.
Applications
Use hydroponic arugula as you would standard arugula: as a salad green, add to sauces, pestos and finish pizzas and baked savory dishes.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Mention of arugula can be found in several religious texts, in 2 Kings in the Bible it is referred to as oroth and in Jewish texts such as the Mishna and Talmud that date back to the first through fifth century AD. Arugula is noted for its use as both a food and medicine. In ancient Rome and Egypt consumption of arugula leaves and seeds were associated with aphrodisiac properties. In India the leaves of arugula are not commonly used however the seeds of the plant are pressed to produce oil known as taramira that is used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
Geography/History
The word hydroponic is derived from two Greek words, "hydro" meaning water and "ponic" meaning labor. Practiced for thousands of years, two well-known hydroponic locations in early civilizations are the Floating Gardens of China and the ancient hanging Gardens of Babylon. It was in the 1950s when scientists took a modern approach to the soil-less method of gardening and researching hydroponics benefits. Native to the Mediterranean region, arugula blossoms and leaves have long been a popular ingredient in the cuisines of Italy, Morocco, Portugal and Turkey. Arugula was brought to America by British colonists but it was not until the 1990’s that arugula became known as a popular culinary ingredient in the United States. Arugula thrives in moderate to cool climates, too much heat will cause it to bolt and impart a bitter flavor on the leaves. It can grown on dry land and wet soil alike. Arugula's spicy aroma and flavor make it naturally resistant to pests.
