Ceylon Spinach(Pui Mechuri)

Basella alba is an edible perennial vine in the family Basellaceae. It is found in tropical Asia and Africa where it is widely used as a leaf vegetable. It is native to the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia and New Guinea. Basella alba is known under various common names, Ceylon spinach among one of them. It is a fast-growing, soft-stemmed vine, reaching 10 meters in length. Its thick, semi-succulent, heart-shaped leaves have a mild flavour and mucilaginous texture. It is rich in vitamins A and C, iron and calcium. It has been shown to contain certain phenolic phytochemicals and it has antioxidant properties. It may be used to thicken soups or stir-fries with garlic and chili peppers.