Cooking with Jute Leaves

Jute is a plant with many uses. It is possible to grow jute for its fresh leaves in certain parts of the world. Few specialty stores also stock it in dried, frozen, or fresh form, depending on their size and location.

The leaves of these plants are simple, with slightly jagged edges. When harvested young, jute leaves are tender and flavorful whereas older leaves tend to be more fibrous and woody, thus making them less ideal for consumption. Other than adding a distinctive taste to food, jute leaves also have some nutritional value. They act as thickeners in sauces, stews, and soups. Jute leaves can be cooked whole loosely chopped to blend better with other ingredients. The stems of jute are used to make paper, rope, and a variety of other products. Jute has been used as a multiuse plant for many centuries in Asia.