Chocolate weed

Melochia corchorifolia

leaf · vegetable

Leaves as a potherb in West and southern Africa; in Malawi, a much-loved slimy side dish; also in India and Indochina.

Origin

Tropical Africa, Asia and Australia

Where to find it

In fields, fallow land and rice paddies.

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

The leaves and young shoots are rinsed and cooked for a few minutes, boiled, steamed or in a sauce; they are eaten cooked.

Molecules

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

Did you know?

The bark gives a fine, strong fibre.