Spiny Sea Plant

Selection

Select large, clean plants by pinching off the branches. Leave the bottom portion (stem) behind. Wash the plant in water to remove dirt and small animals.

Storage

Wrap the plant in taro leaves or inside a sugar sack. Keep the wrapped plant in the shade or refrigerator. Plants can be frozen, but thawing out causes the plant to wilt and turn dark brown but enhances flavor.

Preparation

• Wash the plant well before use.
• Can be eaten fresh as a salad with vinegar or lemon dressing.
• Can be boiled or blanched in lemon water or coconut milk.
• Can be used to make sweet or savory puddings or added to soup or stew as a thickener.
• (Novaczek, 2001)

Photo Source

botany.hawaii.edu