Author: Archana
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Chenopodium species & Atriplex hortensis- Bathua/Goosefoot
The name “Bathua” is often used for multiple goosefoot species found during winter. This article looks at the commonly eaten Chenopodium album, along with related species such as Chenopodium giganteum and Chenopodiastrum murale, explaining how to tell them apart, their edible uses, and their role in traditional Indian food culture.
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Oxalis – Creeping Woodsorrel
Learn how to identify Creeping Woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata), a common edible weed in India. Discover local names, traditional uses, safety tips, and simple recipes using this sour foraged green.
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Celosia argentea – Silver Cockscomb
The first time I got to hear about Silver cockscomb was as ‘Kurdu’ in Pune from a lady whom I met at a local market .She said Kurdu comes in that local market during monsoons only. I tried searching it during the monsoons, but couldn’t find any. Botanical Name: Celosia argentea L. var. argentea Family: Amaranthaceae (Amaranth…
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Solanum complex – Indian Blacknight shade
Indian Blacknightshade, comprising Solanum americanum and Solanum nigrum, is widely consumed despite not being native to India. Both varieties bear edible parts but require proper preparation to ensure safety, with research highlighting their medicinal benefits. Traditional use includes treating ailments, showcasing their culinary versatility through various regional recipes.
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Cardiospermum halicacabum – Balloon vine
Balloon vine aka Uzhinja(ഉഴിഞ്ഞ) is one among the sacred Dashapushpams of Kerala and the first time I would have seen this plant was during the school youth festivals. Wondering how? I used to participate in Thiruvaathirakali dance competitions and its not just the synchronicity and elegance of dancers that matter, when it comes to the…
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Basella alba – Malabar Spinach
What makes Basella especially valuable is that almost every part of the plant can be used. Its leaves, tender stems, and fruits are all edible. Additionally, its roots have been used for medicinal purposes worldwide. There are two types of Basella: one with green stems and another with red or violet stems. The red Basella…
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Ekho-Ek Bidh Xaak/101 Greens Dish of Assam
While South India marks the New Year with Ugadi, Vishu, or Samsaar Padavo, celebrating with dishes that include all six tastes, in Assam the festival of Goru/Rongali Bihu carries its own beautiful culinary tradition. On this day, families collect 101 different greens, herbs, vegetables, and roots (xaak) to prepare a special dish that celebrates abundance…
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Ipomoea aquatica -Water Spinach
Kalmi saag, also known as water spinach, is a versatile green found in various regions and is rich in nutrients. With culinary uses ranging from stir-fries to fritters, it is popular in rainy season recipes. Its low-calorie, nutrient-rich profile makes it beneficial for health, including aiding sleep and treating ailments.
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Mollugo pentaphylla & Glinus oppositifolius – Carpet Weed
Mollugo pentaphylla and Glinus oppositifolius, both members of the Molluginaceae family, are recognized as edible greens known for their bitterness. Varieties exist in many languages and regions. The author shares personal experiences in finding and cooking dishes like dosa with these greens, highlighting their culinary significance and cultural enjoyment.
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 13 : Lesser Known Tubers
After exploring the 12 different categories of tubers in this series—like Cassava, Sweet potatoes, winged bean tubers, arrowroot, edible canna, Taro and Tannia and Elephant foot yam, Chinese potato, Larger Yam, Lesser Yam, Air potato, the Gingers and Turmerics— I’m excited to share the next in the series! This time, we’ll dive into some of the lesser-known, local…
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 12 : Gingers & Turmerics
Turmeric and ginger are must-haves in any Indian household, right? I don’t have to write so much for these two as we all are aware of the benefits, uses and much more. We consider both of them more than a spice/culinary ingredient for any Indian. Turmeric is used as medicinal, therapeutic, cosmetic, dyeing agent, pest…
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 11: Air potato
When I kicked off this tuber series, I honestly didn’t think I’d make it past 10 posts, but here we are with the 11th one! If you happened to miss the previous entries—featuring Cassava, Sweet potatoes, winged bean tubers, arrowroot, edible canna, Taro and Tannia and Elephant foot yam, Chinese potato, Larger Yam & Lesser Yam—definitely take a…
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MY LITTLE THOUGHTS LANE 