You may find the name “snow flower vegetable” quite unfamiliar, as it is relatively new to many people in Vietnam. However, this is a type of vegetable sought after by food enthusiasts in various countries. So, what makes this vegetable so special? Let’s explore in the following article.
What is Snow Flower Vegetable?
Snow flower vegetable has thick leaves, and its surface is adorned with sparkling “ice crystals,” giving it the appearance of having just been rinsed in cold water. This vegetable is popular in restaurants and hotels but is rarely found in markets, as not many farmers grow it due to its perceived difficulty and its cultivation is usually on a small scale. This vegetable is also known as “diamond vegetable” or “noble vegetable” due to its rarity.
Snow flower vegetable is known as a unique vegetable with a succulent shape.
This is a rare succulent vegetable that few people are aware of. It originates from the Namib Desert region of South Africa. Its designation as diamond vegetable highlights its value and rarity. Moreover, the price of this product is quite high, making it not affordable for everyone. It is mainly served at expensive meals in upscale restaurants rather than being a common part of the average person’s dining table.
Due to its African origins, where the natural environment is relatively harsh, the diamond vegetable is endowed with a robust vitality. This plant thrives in sunny conditions, is drought-resistant, salt-tolerant, and can withstand high temperatures but is sensitive to cold and flooding. The most suitable temperature range is 5-25°C; temperatures above 35°C or below 5°C can cause the plant to wither or even die.
Many people are curious about the “ice crystals” covering the surface of the vegetable; in fact, they are a layer of cells primarily composed of natural plant salt. This type of salt has a low sodium content, is beneficial for the body, and is suitable for middle-aged and elderly people as well as those with high blood pressure.
The small crystals on the stems and leaves of snow flower vegetable. (Photo: Toutiao).
Snow flower vegetable is recognized as a unique vegetable with a slightly salty taste and a crunchy texture. This vegetable offers numerous nutritional benefits that not all vegetables possess. Its nutritional profile is rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, as well as various minerals, vitamins A, E, carotene, and pinitol, which helps improve liver function disorders, prevents cataracts, and assists in reducing blood sugar levels. Additionally, it contains antioxidants and anti-cancer properties.
Snow flower vegetable is not only rare but also cultivated using organic technology, making it clean and safe for consumers’ health, while also providing many nutrients that help prevent certain illnesses, making it highly sought after.
What Are the Benefits of Snow Flower Vegetable?
Snow flower vegetable is a special type of vegetable that has a distinctive flavor that is slightly salty and has a crunchy texture. When consumed, the water crystals surrounding the surface of the leaves and stems dissolve, providing a delightful experience that no other vegetable can match. So, beyond this unique characteristic, what benefits does snow flower vegetable offer?
As analyzed above regarding the nutritional components in the vegetable, the minerals, vitamins, and anti-cancer substances that prevent aging positively impact the health of consumers.
The Pinitol in the vegetable helps improve conditions of arterial sclerosis and fatty liver.
The potassium content in the vegetable helps effectively prevent high blood pressure.
The Pinitol present in the vegetable also aids in improving conditions of arterial sclerosis and fatty liver, helps prevent the hardening of skin and hair, and protects the mucous membranes and respiratory system.
Additionally, it stimulates kidney excretion and combats edema, activates enzymes, transmits nerve impulses, and supports muscle function, making it highly beneficial for individuals suffering from constipation.
Myo-inositol helps prevent depression and anxiety disorders.
Thus, it can be seen that snow flower vegetable has many benefits for its consumers. Besides being a delicious and unique dish that enhances skin health, this vegetable also helps prevent diseases and supports overall health.
Snow flower vegetable is often eaten raw to retain its flavor and nutritional value. (Photo: Toutiao).
In China, this vegetable is sold at a relatively high price, around 10-20 RMB/kg (~35,000-70,000 VND/kg), with some instances reaching up to 60 RMB/kg (~200,000 VND).
In Vietnam, the price of snow flower vegetable is considered “more expensive than meat,” ranging from 120,000 – 150,000 VND/kg. In recent years, this vegetable has just been introduced to our country and is being cultivated by some gardeners in Da Lat using organic technology to supply the market.
Due to its limited cultivation and few sources of supply, this vegetable often experiences “stock shortages” despite its high price. Gourmet diners or those buying it as gifts often purchase 2-3 kg at a time, while those who are curious and are trying it for the first time usually buy 0.5-1 kg.
