Tag: Ugwu

Over 200 million Nigerians rely on a diverse range of indigenous vegetables for their soups and stews, with one leaf, fluted pumpkin, often considered a national treasure due to its wide usage and nutritional value. But is it the *most* famous? What is Nigerian famous vegetable, and what others are just as vital to its culinary heritage?

According to USDA data, one cup of raw pumpkin leaves contains just over 7 calories, making them an incredibly low-calorie and nutrient-dense addition to your diet. This green leafy vegetable is a fantastic way to boost your nutrient intake without significantly increasing your caloric load.

Despite the confusing nickname 'fluted pumpkin', Ugwu (*Telfairia occidentalis*) is botanically a different plant from the common pumpkin (*Cucurbita pepo*). While both are members of the gourd family, they are distinct species with different characteristics and culinary applications.