Basella spinach கொடி பசலை épinard de Malabar |
Tamil name | Pasalai Keerai கொடி பசலை
Botanical name | Basella alba
Other names | Malabar Spinach / Climbing spinach
Season
The best season for basella/malabar spinach:
It can be grown throughout the year, as it thrives in warm and humid conditions.
Grow & Harvest
How to grow in your garden or balcony:
Soil:
Well-draining soil with organic matter is ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral.
Propagation:
It can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in water for a few hours before planting.
Watering:
Regular watering is essential, and the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Support:
Since basella spinach is a climbing vine, it benefits from support structures like trellises or fences.
In a container:
yes you can grow this spinach in a container on your sunny terrace or balcony, with a climbing support.
Harvest:
Harvest the leaves and tender stems when they are young and tender. Regular harvesting encourages new growth. You can harvest individual leaves or cut the stems, depending on your preference.
Store & Preserve
Best ways to store and preserve:
Remember that basella spinach has a higher water content compared to some other leafy greens, so it may wilt faster. Using it within a few days of purchase or harvest is ideal for the best flavour and texture. Additionally, storing it properly in the refrigerator will help maintain its freshness for a longer time.
Refrigeration:
To extend the freshness of the spinach, store it in the fridge. Wrap the leaves/stems in a damp paper towel and place them in a perforated plastic bag or a vegetable crisper drawer.
Freezing:
While basella spinach is best consumed fresh, you can freeze it for longer storage. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for a minute, then transfer them to an ice bath. Pat them dry and store in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Drying:
The spinach can be dried for later use. Wash and air-dry the leaves or use a dehydrator to dry them. Once dried, store them in a cool, dark place in an airtight container.
Pesto or Puree:
Create a spinach pesto or puree by blending the leaves/stems with garlic, nuts, oil, and salt. Freeze the pesto in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Prepare & Eat
How to prepare and eat basella spinach?
Taste and Texture:
Malabar spinach has a mild, slightly peppery taste. The leaves are thick and mucilaginous when cooked, similar to okra. The stems and leaves are both edible.
Cleaning:
Rinse the spinach leaves thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently pat the leaves dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Raw:
this spinach can be used raw in salads. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and add them to your favourite salads for a nutritious boost.
Smoothies and Juices:
Blend the leaves into your smoothies or juices for a nutrient-packed beverage.
Sauté:
Heat a bit of oil in a pan, add chopped garlic and spinach. Sauté until the leaves wilt. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir-fry:
Stir-fry basella spinach with other vegetables and spices for a quick and flavourful side dish.
Soups and Stews:
Add it to soups, stews, or curries. It cooks quickly and adds a mild flavour to the dish.
Fritters or Pakoras:
Mix basella spinach leaves/stems with chickpea flour, spices, and water to make fritters or pakoras. Deep fry until golden brown.
Health
Nutritional Values and Ayurvedic properties
Basella spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and B-complex, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium. It contains antioxidants, including beta-carotene and lutein, which are beneficial for eye health. Spinach is low in calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their calorie intake.
In Ayurveda, this spinach is considered to have the following properties:
Taste (Rasa): Sweet, Bitter.
Energetics (Virya): Cooling.
Post-digestive Effect (Vipaka): Sweet.
Dosha: Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas.
Due to its cooling nature, basella spinach is believed to be beneficial in pacifying excess heat in the body and promoting digestion. It is often recommended for those with Pitta imbalances.
Incorporated into your diet, it can be a nutritious addition, providing a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Always consult with a healthcare professional or an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized advice, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions.
