SSAMCHU MIXED LETTUCE I RARE

Ssamchu green and red lettuce is deeply rooted in Korean culinary culture, primarily used in the preparation of ssam, where food is wrapped in lettuce leaves. Its history is closely linked to the evolution of Korean eating practices.

Origins
Lettuce cultivation in general dates back to ancient times, with evidence of its domestication in Mediterranean regions. In Korea, lettuce was introduced and adapted to local climatic conditions. Over the centuries, various varieties of lettuce, including green Ssamchu, have been cultivated for their culinary qualities.

Ssam and food culture
Ssam, meaning "to wrap," is a culinary tradition that emerged during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897). At that time, Korean meals often consisted of multiple side dishes (banchan) and meat or fish dishes. Using lettuce leaves to wrap these foods was a way to create a balanced meal that was both nutritious and visually appealing.

Green or red Ssamchu lettuce was specifically bred for its soft texture and ability to remain intact when used to wrap meats, rice, and condiments. It is especially popular in dishes like samgyeopsal, where the lettuce serves to balance the rich, fatty flavors of the meat.

Modern practices
Today, Ssamchu lettuce is widely grown in Korea and Japan and is a staple ingredient in many households. It is often eaten fresh in salads or used in various Korean barbecue dishes.

Cultural significance
In addition to its nutritional value, Ssamchu lettuce holds an important place in Korean culture. It is often associated with shared meals with family or friends, symbolizing harmony and sharing. Ssam is considered an interactive culinary experience, where everyone can customize their dish according to their tastes.

In short, green and red Ssamchu lettuce is much more than just a vegetable; it is a reflection of Korean food traditions, the harmony of flavors and sharing around the table.

The Ssamchu Green and Red Lettuce Mix combines the nutritional and health-promoting properties of each variety. Here are some of the properties of this mix:

• 1. Rich in Nutrients
  Vitamins: Both varieties are rich in vitamins A, C and K, which are essential for healthy eyes, skin and blood clotting.
  Minerals: They contain minerals like potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
• 2. Antioxidants
  Red lettuce, in particular, is rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants that help fight free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• 3. Hydration
  Composed of approximately 95 % of water, these lettuces are excellent for hydration, especially in summer.
• 4. Digestive Effects
  They contain dietary fiber which promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain regular intestinal transit.
• 5. Calming Properties
  Some studies suggest that the lactobacilli found in lettuce may have calming effects, helping to reduce stress and promote better sleep.
• 6. Low in Calories
  These lettuces are low in calories, making them ideal for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
• 7. Support for Heart Health
  Thanks to their low fat content and richness in potassium, they are beneficial for heart health.
• 8. Variety of Flavors and Textures
  The blend offers a diversity of flavors, with the red lettuce adding a slight bitterness compared to the sweetness of the green lettuce, which enriches dishes and salads.
  In summary, Ssamchu Lettuce Mix not only offers nutritional benefits, but it also adds color and texture to your meals, while promoting healthy eating.

Traditionally, Ssamchu lettuce is mainly used in Korean and Japanese cuisine to prepare ssam dishes, which involve wrapping ingredients in lettuce leaves. Here are some traditional preparation methods and recipes:

• 1. Ssam (Wrapped Dishes)
  Main ingredients:
  Grilled meats (such as samgyeopsal, pork, or bulgogi, marinated beef)
  Cooked rice
  Condiments such as ssamjang (a side sauce made from soybean paste and chili paste)
  Kimchi and other pickled vegetables
  Preparation :
  Grill the meat on a barbecue or in a frying pan.
  Take a Ssamchu lettuce leaf, add some cooked rice.
  Add pieces of meat, some ssamjang and vegetables or kimchi.
  Wrap the leaf around the ingredients and enjoy.
• 2. Salads
  Ssamchu lettuce can be used in fresh salads.
  It can be mixed with other vegetables such as grated carrots, cucumbers and radishes, seasoned with a light vinaigrette made from soy sauce, vinegar and sesame.
• 3. Soups
  In some recipes, lettuce leaves can be added to soups to give them a fresh texture and flavor.
  For example, a tofu soup might include Ssamchu leaves at the end of cooking to preserve their crunchiness.
• 4. Accompaniments
  Ssamchu lettuce can be blanched lightly and served as a side dish with rice and other main dishes.
• 5. Vegetarian wraps
  For a vegetarian version, Ssamchu lettuce can be used to wrap sautéed or grilled vegetables, tofu, and sauces.

Preparation tips
Choosing leaves: Choose young, tender leaves for better texture.
Seasoning: Ssamjang is often a staple, but other sauces like gochujang (chili paste) or a sesame-based dressing can be used.
All in all, Ssamchu lettuce is versatile and can be incorporated into traditional Korean dishes in many ways, showcasing its crisp texture and ability to balance the rich flavors of grilled foods.

Culture tip:

• "Discover the freshness and diversity of our green and red Ssamchu lettuce seed packets, ideal for brightening up your dishes and adding unique flavors to your cooking! Grow your own mix of colors and textures for healthy and delicious meals."
• Choosing the right time
  Early Sowing: Sow seeds early in spring or fall to take advantage of cool temperatures, which are ideal for growing lettuce.
• Staggered harvest
  Gradual harvest: Harvest the outer leaves as they grow, allowing the plant to continue producing new leaves.
• Sow seeds directly into rich soil in full sun, spreading them as thinly as possible in rows 1 foot apart; when seedlings begin to grow, thin them to 8-10 inches apart

“I reseed Ssamchu lettuce between mid-September and November to enjoy winter harvests in our outdoor greenhouse. This variety is ideal because it tolerates both heat and cold, and can also be grown in a cold frame greenhouse. Enjoy its delicious leaves all winter long!”

Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate.

• Species: Lactuca Sativa
• Sowing: Early April-May (consecutive sowing every 2-3 weeks until September) for growing during the winter you can sow in an outdoor greenhouse or cold greenhouse, between August and the end of October.
• Seeds: 3 seeds per cell or pot in April. From the end of May, put the seeds directly into the ground.
• The pots will be ready to plant 1 month after sowing.
• Sowing depth: 0.5 cm
• Germination time: 7-10 days
• Soil: Slightly acidic, humus-rich, loose, fresh and well-drained
• Location: Sun and tolerates shade and cold very well
• Spacing between plants: 20-25cm
• Height at maturity: 20-35cm
• Maturity: 40-60 days
• The seeds are coated with pink clay for protection against diseases.
• Seed per envelope: +/- 100

Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.