Region of Origin
Commodity:
Upland Cress
Description & Origin
Upland cress is one of the three major types of cress, along with watercress and garden cress. While all are considered cress due to their similar use and flavor, they are botanically unrelated. Upland cress looks and tastes similar to watercress, but is much easier to grow and does not require running water for cultivation. Leaves of the upland cress look like a mix between arugula and watercress...
Other Names
Land Cress, Creasy Greens
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Upland cress, like other cress types, is exceptionally rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin K – but also A and C. It is also a good source of vitamin B2, folate, and potassium. Cress is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Upland cress is a versatile green with a big flavor. It’s bold, peppery taste is often used to jazz up sandwiches or salads. It can be added to soups or stews, or just cooked like a braising green with pork fat. At their baby stage, upland cress leaves are most often used as a garnish with a flavor punch.
Flavor Pairings
Squash, Zucchini, Potato, Strawberry, Radish, Onion, Chive, Egg, Pork
How to Prepare
Gently wash and dry leaves prior to use.
How to Store in the Kitchen
Commercially grown upland cress is most often grown hydroponically and shipped with roots intact. Such cress should be stored in its original container wrapped in the plastic liner, and kept moist at all times. If the upland cress has been cut, it should be refrigerated wrapped in a damp paper towel, sealed in an air-tight container, and used as soon as possible.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
All parts of the upland cress leaf and stem are edible, delicious, and nutritious.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
32-34°F
TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
32-39°F (Cold Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING:
No
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
90-100%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
No
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Yes - Medium
Quality Assessment
Leaves should be dark green, glossy, moist, and free from decay.
Optimum Shelf Life
Boxes of hydroponically-grown greens should be kept upright and handled with care to avoid crushed or damaged product.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, upland cress may last up to 5 days.
