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The Ibibio people of AkwaIbom State call it Udot Akanawan; it is also known as Jew's mallow, molokhia or Jute leaves. The Yorubas call it Ewedu, while the Igbos call it Ahihara.

When paired with proteins like meat or fish and some garlic, it produces an inviting aroma and lets fufu glide smoothly with very little or no resistance, packed with a lot of flavour and taste.

While writing this post, I discovered it could be used as tea and an ingredient in a salad.

Description

The Egyptian Spinach is a vegetable with dark-glossy-green-leaves often used in soups, stews, salads and a lot of traditional dishes. The leaves have jagged edges, a sharp apex, and it is easily identified by the two tail-like projections at the base of the leaf close to its long-cylindrical stalk. The Egyptian Spinach plant also has fruits that look like miniature Okra fruits.

Leaf's front	Leaf's back

The plant has a straight upright stem when young, and may develop side shoots as it ages. The area closer to the bud is both soft and tender.

When crushed, chopped, or cooked, the Egyptian Spinach starts to release some slimy substance and gives off its flavour, this mucilaginous texture is what makes it cool for swallowing fufu.

Nutritional value of the Egyptian Spinach

The Egyptian Spinach is densely packed with nutrients in the form of vitamins, minerals and others. It comes with a lot of Vitamin A which supports your eye's health and immune function. It also has Vitamin C, which can boost immunity and antioxidant defences. It is also said to have Vitamin K, an essential component for blood clotting and healthy bones.
It is believed to have calcium, Iron and Potassium. It has a lot of fibre and antioxidants; a real protection against stress and inflammation.

Other Health Benefits:

The Egyptian Spinach supports your heart's health because it contains plenty of potassium, fibre, and antioxidants. It also aids in your digestion of food due to its High fibre content. With the potential to manage blood sugar, Egyptian Spinach is a dish you should love.

Do you have a local recipe for this plant?

Were you introduced to Egyptian Spinach by this post?

I really wish you could share the local name for this plant,

I am inviting you and the following to have your say in the comment section below.

@whoknows27, @goodnews2020, @dannykool, @okere-blessing and @rubee2as1

Media Credit

Composer	@manuelhooks
Photographer	@manuelhooks
Captured with	Galaxy-A15
Captured Date	Saturday 6th September
Posting Date	Sunday 7th September
	(@) 2025