5 leafy greens redefining healthy eating
What's the story
African leafy greens are slowly but surely taking the vegetarian world by storm with their distinct flavors and high nutrition value.
The humble greens, which often get ignored, are now being rediscovered as the hot new thing to reshape vegetarian dishes.
From enhancing health to bringing variety to the plate, these greens have a lot to offer to the plant-based eaters.
Here are five African leafy greens that are creating a buzz.
Amaranth
Amaranth leaves: A nutrient powerhouse
Amaranth leaves, which are bright green in color, are packed with vitamins A and C, iron and calcium.
They have long been a staple in many African diets for their versatility and nutrition.
These leaves can be tossed into salads or cooked up as a side dish.
Their mildly earthy flavor goes well with various spices and ingredients, making them perfect for vegetarian recipes.
Moringa
Moringa leaves: The miracle tree
Moringa leaves are obtained from the moringa tree, which is popularly called the "miracle tree" due to its abundance of health benefits.
Rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium, moringa leaves can be used fresh or dried in soups or teas.
Their mild flavor helps them blend in smoothly into various dishes while giving a nutritional boost.
Jute mallow
Jute mallow: A slimy delight
Jute mallow is popular for its mucilaginous texture when cooked, which makes it a thickening agent in soups and stews.
Rich in vitamins A and C as well as iron, jute mallow is used widely across Africa for its health benefits.
Its peculiar texture may take some getting used to but provides an interesting twist on traditional vegetarian dishes.
Cowpea leaves
Cowpea leaves: Versatile green option
Cowpea leaves come from the cowpea plant, which is primarily known for its beans but also prized for its nutritious leaves.
Rich in protein content along with vitamins B6 and C, as well as folate, these tender leaves can be sauteed or added into curries.
They provide both flavor and dietary enhancement within any meal plan they star in.
Cassava leaves
Cassava leaves: Traditional staple reimagined
Cassava leaves have been a part of traditional African cuisine for decades, mostly because they are plenty, but also super nutritious.
They are rich in protein along with essential amino acids such as lysine, methionine, amongst others.
This makes them perfect candidates if you are looking for new ways to include more plant-based options to your daily meals without compromising on taste or quality at all!