A ora-pro-nóbis (OPN) is gaining prominence as an unconventional food plant (PANC) packed with nutritional benefits and medicinal properties. With its high protein, fiber and minerals, the leaves of this plant have been gaining ground in the kitchens of people looking for a healthier and more sustainable diet.
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So, for those who want to grow ora-pro-nóbis at home, the good news is that its cultivation is uncomplicated. Victor Pereira, Agricultural Engineer from Brasília, explained in an interview with the portal Metropolises, that it is possible to plant this plant from a seedling with ease.
Simply place the seedling in a black bag with substrate, partially bury it, with the buried part becoming the root and the above-ground part developing as the growing plant. Although it is possible to grow it indoors, it thrives best outdoors.
The ora-pro-nóbis has a growth habit similar to that of a climbing plant, which is why it is It is advisable to choose a driving method, such as espalier, which uses a stake to guide the growth.
As far as fertilization is concerned, some people recycle nutrients using food scraps, but it is also an effective option to use fertilizers, like NPK.
Harvesting the stems, including leaves and petioles, can be carried out after 90 to 120 days, as the plant reaches about 80 cm in length. Each cut can yield 1 to 2 kg of leaves per plant, with the possibility of making four to eight cuts per year. Surprisingly, a planted ora-pro-nóbis plant can last more than 10 years.
In addition to its uncomplicated cultivation, ora-pro-nóbis offers many benefits in food. Rayanne Marques, nutritionist at Clínica Aesthesis in Brasília, suggests crushing the leaves and adding them to foods such as rice, pasta, broths and beans.
That's because this is an effective way to meet your daily protein needs, as the plant contains an impressive 22g of protein per 100g. Furthermore, its high concentration of fiber makes it a valuable ally in glycemic control, making it an excellent choice for people with diabetes.
Nutrologist Isolda Prado, from the Brazilian Association of Nutrology (Abran), recommends sautéing ora-pro-nóbis with olive oil, garlic and onion. This way, it can be enjoyed as a side dish or filling for pies and omelets. The versatility of this plant makes it a valuable addition to the diet, as it offers antioxidant action and helps prevent anemia due to its high iron content.
With the easy cultivation of ora-pro-nóbis and its incredible nutritional richness, more people are discovering the benefits of this versatile and delicious plant, which not only improves the quality of their meals, but it also contributes to a healthier and more balanced diet.
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