The wild veggies of Goa that time has forgotten

A FINE VINE

Found during the monsoon, this delicate vine is known as Ghotvel (Smilax ovalifolia). This name is intertwined with Ghoteli village in Sattari. The vine's tender, reddish shoots are used for preparing a succulent local meal.

YELLOW DELIGHT

As winter blankets Goa's plateaus with golden grass, tiny yellow flowers bloom, adding to the beauty of the landscape. Known locally as Naalichi Bhaji, this vegetable is prepared from the plant before it flowers.

DINO DELICACY

The Leea indica shrub, locally known as Dino, holds immense cultural and medicinal value. There are three types of Dino plants, two of which are commonly used as vegetables, but the red one is lesser known in cuisine.

SCENTED BOUNTY

The flowers of Nagalkuda (Holarrhena pubescens) emit a heavenly fragrance and its tender pods are used to prepare a delicious vegetable dish.

MONSOON FLAVOUR

Cassia tora, (local name, Taikhulo) sprouts almost everywhere a week after the first heavy monsoon rains. People pluck its tender leaves and prepare a dish by adding jackfruit seeds and grated coconut.

FRY IT FRESH

Faagla (Momordica dioica) is a large perennial climber. It bears fruits that are sliced and fried or cooked as a vegetable.

LEAFY WONDER

Peperomia pellucida, locally called Chiddo, has succulent stems, shiny heart-shaped fleshy leaves, and tiny seeds attached to its spikes. This plant thrives in shaded, damp habitats. It is edible and is also rich in medicinal value.

TENDER BITES

Known as Bonkalo (Costus speciosus), this shrub bears white flowers during the monsoons. When its leaves are tender, villagers use them to prepare a vegetable dish.

HIDDEN HEALER

Dunduno (Alternanthera sessilis) is an often neglected weed. However, its tender leaves, rich in medicinal value, are used as a vegetable before the plant flowers.

TRIBAL TREAT

Known as Sonari or Chanyechi Bhaji, the tender leaves of this plant are used by tribals and other forest dwellers to prepare a tasty vegetable dish.

NEXT: Find some of the best veggies in these villages of Goa