Morning Glory - Baby Ipomoea aquatica Forssk., family Convolvulaceae. This is seed-grown upland water spinach harvested at the young stage, before the stems and leaves reach full maturity. It is characterized by small, tender stems, fresh green young leaves, and a smaller overall size than mature water spinach.
Characteristic Features
The young stems are slender, naturally green, and have distinct nodes. They are relatively tender while remaining firm and slightly crisp. The young shoots are short, with low fiber content, making the tender stems and leaves suitable for use.
The leaves are small, elongated or slightly lance-shaped, with pointed tips and a light to medium green color. Young leaves are thinner, softer, and less fibrous than mature leaves. Acceptable raw material should have fresh young shoots, naturally green stems and leaves, and no yellowing, wilting, bruising, slime, decay, mold, pest damage, or abnormal odor.
Flavor & Texture
The vegetable has a mild characteristic aroma with a fresh, slightly sweet green flavor. Young stems are tender, crisp, and moderately juicy, with low fiber content, while the young leaves are soft and tender. The vegetable cooks quickly and retains a slight crispness when not overcooked.
Uses and Applications
Baby Upland Water Spinach is commonly used for stir-frying, boiling, soups, or cooking with meat, shrimp, fish, and seasonings. As it is harvested young, the tender shoots, stems, and leaves can be used after removing the mature base or any unsuitable portions.
Nutritionally, water spinach provides water, dietary fiber, vitamins A, C and K, folate, iron, calcium, and various minerals.
