Alache

Anoda cristata

leaf · flower

Leaves and purple flowers with a mild, slightly slimy taste, in quesadillas, soup or mixed with quelites.

Origin

Mexico (Tlaxcala, Puebla)

Where to find it

It is sold in bunches in the rainy season at markets in central Mexico, with the other quelites.

Season (United States)

July to October

Preparation

Leaves and flowers are washed and cooked for a few minutes, in soup or filling; they are eaten cooked.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitrates · ChlorophyllIn small amounts, not counted Mucilages

Did you know?

It is one of the quelites, the wild greens Mexicans pick between the rows of corn.