gotu kola

Gotu Kola

Gotu kola, also known as Centella asiatica, is a leafy green herb celebrated for its mild, slightly bitter, and grassy flavor profile. Its leaves are small, fan-shaped, and possess a vibrant green hue. When fresh, gotu kola offers a crisp yet slightly succulent texture. It's often used as a nutritious ingredient in Asian cuisines, and is also recognized for its potential health benefits, including its reputed ability to improve cognitive function. Explore its versatility in both savory and refreshing dishes.

Common Uses

  • Enjoy Gotu Kola in fresh salads: The leaves add a unique peppery and slightly bitter flavor, creating a refreshing and healthy dish. Gotu Kola leaves are best served raw to maintain their nutritional properties.
  • Incorporate Gotu Kola into refreshing beverages: Blend fresh gotu kola leaves into smoothies, juices, or herbal teas for added nutrients and a subtle herbal flavor. This is a great way to enjoy gotu kola's benefits.
  • Prepare Gotu Kola as a vibrant vegetable side dish: Lightly stir-fry or steam the leaves to create a simple, nutritious side. Gotu Kola can be paired with other vegetables and seasonings.
  • Use Gotu Kola in flavorful rice dishes: Finely chop gotu kola and add it to rice dishes during the last few minutes of cooking to infuse a mild herbal essence. Use it in fried rice or steamed rice for a subtle flavor boost.
  • Add Gotu Kola to soups and stews: Incorporate the leaves into soups and stews as a late addition to contribute a subtle herbal note and added nutritional value.
  • Blend Gotu Kola into pesto and sauces: Blend gotu kola with nuts, garlic, cheese, and olive oil to create a healthy pesto or sauce with a herbaceous twist. Use it on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

33.0kcal (1.65%)

Protein

1.4g (2.74%)

Carbs

7.2g (2.61%)

Sugars

0.9g (1.74%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • May support cognitive function and memory.
  • Can help reduce anxiety and stress levels.
  • Might promote wound healing and skin health.
  • Rich in antioxidants, potentially fighting free radical damage.
  • Traditionally used to improve circulation.

Substitutes

Storage Tips

Gotu kola is best used fresh. If you purchase fresh leaves, store them in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag. This will help maintain their moisture and freshness for up to a week. Dried gotu kola should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place to preserve its flavor and potency. Avoid direct sunlight and humidity to prevent spoilage.

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