Malabar Spinach Soup
Malabar Spinach Soup is a light, savory broth-based dish featuring the thick, succulent leaves of the Malabar spinach plant (Basella alba). Unlike true spinach, it has a milder, slightly peppery flavor and a mucilaginous texture that naturally thickens soups. It is a popular home-style comfort food in South and Southeast Asian cuisines, particularly in India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This soup is low in calories and carbohydrates, with minimal fat and protein, making it a light, hydrating option. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and provides a good amount of iron, calcium, and dietary fiber.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
| Carbs | 7 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 2.8 g |
| Sugar | 1.5 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin A | 4500 IU |
| Vitamin C | 40 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Folate | 50 mcg |
| Vitamin K | 15 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Malabar spinach is a heat-loving vine, thriving in tropical climates where true spinach struggles. Its natural mucilage, which gives it a slightly slippery texture, is valued in many cultures for its soothing properties for the digestive system.
