The name “Brazilian spinach” reflects its country of origin, Brazil. With its glossy, attractive leaves, it is a must-grow vegetable at home.
Benefits of Brazilian Spinach
Like other
spinach varieties and leafy vegetables, Brazilian spinach is packed with
nutritional value. It contains essential vitamins such as A and C, minerals
like iron and calcium, and dietary fiber. These nutrients work together to
support immune function, promote healthy bones, and aid digestion (SPINACH COCONUT MILK CURRY)
What Sets
Brazilian Spinach Apart
Brazilian spinach has a unique blend of antioxidants and phytochemicals that may provide stronger anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects compared to common leafy greens. Additionally, its nutrient content remains stable even after cooking, making it an excellent choice for both raw and cooked dishes.
Brazilian spinach is one of the easiest leafy greens to grow. There’s no complicated technique involved, just simple gardening for sustainable living.
All you need are a few stems to start. You can buy a small plant in a black
plastic bag or container for less than RM10. Even better, ask experienced
gardeners for some stems. They usually are generous to share because pruning
encourages new growth, keeping the plant healthy and full (SPINACH CHEESE RECIPE).
You can grow Brazilian spinach in pots or as an ornamental plant in hanging
baskets. Whether in pots or directly in the ground, just poke the stems into
the soil, and you’re done.
Growing Brazilian Spinach on the ground.
Soil &
Fertilizer for Brazilian Spinach
Brazilian
spinach grows easily and doesn’t mind the soil type. It can grow just about
anywhere there is soil. It does not require fertilizer because it is a hardy
green. Growing it without fertilizer means you’re practicing organic gardening,
free from chemicals.
Watering
Brazilian Spinach
Like all herbs,
plants, fruits, and vegetables, watering is essential. Keep the soil moist, and
Brazilian spinach will thrive.
Bugs &
White Mites
In some urban areas where air quality is poor or rubbish isn’t disposed of properly, white mites may settle on Brazilian spinach. To get rid of them, simply spray the plant with water or use a hose to wash them off. The mites will fly away, but be sure to check regularly in case they return.
Brazilian spinach is a sustainable plant that can grow well in sun or rain. Its hardy nature means it does not depend heavily on sunshine.
Taste of
Brazilian Spinach
Brazilian spinach has a mild, slightly earthy flavor when eaten raw or cooked. Some say it can be slightly bitter, but once cooked or prepared in a dish, it becomes pleasant, easy to eat, and a delight to the taste buds.
Uses of
Brazilian Spinach
If you’re
growing or planning to grow Brazilian spinach, you’ll find it very versatile in
the kitchen. There are countless simple recipes to try. Use it as a topping for
pizza, or added into fried mee hoon or fried rice. Also, for soups, or raw salads, either on its own or combined with other vegetables and greens.
It even works well in Indian cooking, such as in lentil curries or mashed
spinach dishes.
Brazilian
Spinach Stir-Fry Recipe
Here’s a quick
and healthy recipe to try, an easy Brazilian spinach dish that’s nutritious and
delicious. You can have it hot or cold. It works well on its own as a light
meal or as a starter, appetizer, or side dish with mashed potatoes, toast, or
rice.
Ingredients
Fresh Brazilian
spinach leaves (soaked, rinsed, plucked from stems, and patted dry; keep stems
for replanting)
Garlic, finely
chopped (be generous!)
Salt, to taste
Cooking oil
(coconut or olive oil recommended for added nutrients)
Method
Heat the oil in
a pan and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
Add the
Brazilian spinach leaves.
Sprinkle salt,
and stir-fry to your preferred texture.
Dish out.
Discover Brazilian Spinach
There is a lot to discover about Brazilian spinach. It is one of the cheapest and most versatile green vegetables. It offers great value. In Malaysia, Brazilian spinach is still not widely known or used in everyday cooking.
Many people are unaware of it or hesitant to try it, which is a missed opportunity. Once you discover Brazilian spinach, whether through gardening or cooking at home, you will likely appreciate its taste and benefits.
