World’s most expensive vegetable that costs Rs 85,000 per kg

Hop shoots are considered one of the most expensive vegetables in the global market, costing anywhere between Rs 85,000 - Rs 1 lakh per kilogram. It has been reported that these shoots are expensive because growing and harvesting them is labor-intensive. As per experts, they don’t grow in uniform rows, which means that harvesting the shoots requires hunching down and hunting around, which involves a lot of manual labour. Also, they grow wildly and are difficult to find and harvest, and one has to look for them in a large area for harvesting. They are the green tips of the hop plant, which is commonly associated with beer, as the flowers are used in the production of alcoholic beverages. And the green tendrils are used for other culinary purposes, which has made them famous in the culinary world. (Image: istock)

Usually found in international markets, this vegetable was first grown in the Lahaul area of Himachal Pradesh. It mostly grows in cold areas and requires about 5 to 6 weeks of near-freezing temperatures for optimal growth. You would be surprised to know that the hop production can survive temperatures of -25 degrees C or lower while growing. This is why this vegetable is sold at such a high price.

The most common and easy way is to add it to salads. You can also saute it in a little olive oil or butter and serve it as a side dish. Those who wish to avoid oil, can grill it and the smokey flavour of grilled hop shoots goes well with toast on the side. Also, pickled hop shoots are also good for gut health. (Image: Instagram/healthyholisticview)

It is considered an herbal medicine that contains various essential oils, vitamins, and minerals. Vitamin E, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin C have antioxidant properties, which make the immune system more active and less susceptible to diseases. (Image: istock)

Also Read: 10 Most expensive foods from around the world

The natural oil and minerals found in the plant have an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and are used to decrease the surface blood vessels, thereby helping reduce redness and irritation. (Image: istock)

As per studies, beer is used to wash hair because it contains antioxidants and hops, which help reduce hair fall and dandruff too.

Hops have been shown in studies to help relieve aching muscles and body pain.

It has been found that hops accelerate the metabolism of the body and, hence, soothe digestive health.

As per studies, hops are rich in essential oils that help induce better sleep. (Image: istock)

The essential oils present in hops have soothing properties and a sedative effect that helps ease menstrual cramps and pain. The sedative quality helps loosen the muscles and reduces pain. (Image: istock)

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