MYSTERIOUS SLIPPERY SPINACH


This is a mysterious green leaf vegetable, I've attempted a couple of searches for a common name but there does not appear to be a consensus. Australia's Department of Primary Industries lists at least 27 names for this tender leaf vine, designating the name Ceylon Spinach for locals. This leafy green is commonly found in Asian markets, and occasionally on menus of Asian restaurants. Under what name? I have no idea. If you have one or a couple, let me know.  I'm sure the Australian government would love to know as well.



 I found these greens at the Civic Center Farmers' Market in San Francisco where I was instantly attracted by the clusters of petite pearl buds studding these curly green vines. So I whisked them into my basket and went to my friend, Gloria's house to make a traditional Asian stir-fry of greens sauteed in olive and sesame oil with garlic. 


How was it? I think it is like what spinach hybridized with okra would taste like, tender and a bit slimy, but delicious - if you like okra. I liked it, and will cook it again.

2 comments:

chow and chatter said...

sounds good, i think its in India as well, my friend was growing it at her home, like a vine?

Fresh Local and Best said...

The literature seems to indicate that this plant is from India. Yes, it grows like a vine.