10/01/2025
Munyevhe, a popular Zimbabwean traditional vegetable! Munyevhe is also known as Cleome or Spider flower in English. It is a wild leafy vegetable that thrives during the rainy season and is commonly found in rural areas of Zimbabwe.
Key Facts About Munyevhe:
1. Seasonal Availability:
Munyevhe grows naturally during the rainy season and is widely harvested in fields and gardens. It’s considered one of the easiest vegetables to grow since it requires minimal care.
2. Taste and Preparation:
Munyevhe has a slightly bitter taste, which is loved by many. It is usually boiled, drained to reduce bitterness, and then cooked with peanut butter (dovi) or mixed with tomatoes and onions for flavor. The peanut butter version is especially popular and delicious.
3. Nutritional Value:
Munyevhe is rich in:
Vitamins A and C
Calcium
Iron
Antioxidants, which are good for boosting the immune system.
4. Cultural Importance:
Munyevhe is a cherished delicacy in Zimbabwean households, especially in rural areas.
It is seen as a "rainy-season treasure" because it provides fresh greens when other vegetables are scarce.
It’s also part of the larger group of indigenous vegetables (muriwo wenyika) that connect people to their roots and traditional diets.
5. Preservation:
After the rainy season, Munyevhe can be dried (mufushwa wemunyevhe) to preserve it for later use during the dry season. The dried version can be rehydrated and cooked when fresh vegetables are not available.
゚viralシfypシ゚viralシalシ