Helencha

Enydra fluctuans

leaf

Slightly bitter aquatic shoots, fried with garlic or as fritters, in Bengal.

Origin

Bengal and Southeast Asia

Where to find it

In ponds, ditches and rice paddies in Bengal; it is sold in bunches at markets in Kolkata and Dhaka.

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

The tender tips are kept, washed well, as the plant grows in water, then chopped before being fried for a few minutes.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitrates · Chlorophyll

Did you know?

In Bengal, it is eaten at the start of the meal: bitterness whets the appetite.