ong菜英文怎么说（What is the English Name for Ong Choy）

What is the English Name for Ong Choy?

Ong choy is a leafy green vegetable that is commonly used in many Southeast Asian cuisines. Known for its crisp texture and slightly bitter, yet refreshing taste, it is a popular ingredient in stir-fries, soups, and salads. This article aims to answer the question: what is the English name for ong choy?

Scientific Name

Ong choy is scientifically known as Ipomoea aquatica and is a member of the morning glory family. It is sometimes called water spinach, although it is not related to spinach at all. The plant is a semi-aquatic perennial, meaning that it grows in water or damp soil and can live for several years.

English Names

Ong choy goes by many names in English, depending on the region and cultural background. Some of the most common names for ong choy include:

• Water spinach - As mentioned earlier, this name is a misnomer as ong choy is not related to spinach. However, it is probably the most widely used English name for the vegetable.
• River spinach - This name is used in some Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand and Vietnam.
• Kangkong - This name is used in the Philippines and is derived from the Malay word for water spinach ('kangkung').
• Chinese watercress - In some parts of the world, ong choy is also called Chinese watercress. This name is used in the Caribbean, for instance, where the vegetable is often used in soup recipes.

Culinary Uses

Ong choy is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in many ways. Here are some of the most popular culinary uses for ong choy:

1. Stir-fries - Ong choy is a popular vegetable for stir-frying due to its tender texture and ability to absorb flavors. It pairs well with spicy sauces, garlic, and ginger.
2. Soups - Ong choy is often used in soups, especially in Southeast Asian cuisine. It adds a refreshing crunch to soups and complements hearty proteins like pork and shrimp.
3. Salads - Young ong choy leaves and stems can be eaten raw in salads. They add a refreshing crunch and delicate flavor to green salads.
4. Noodle dishes - Ong choy can also be used in noodle dishes, such as pho or pad thai. Its tender texture pairs well with soft noodles and savory broth.

In conclusion, ong choy is a leafy green vegetable with a slightly bitter, refreshing taste that is widely used in Southeast Asian cuisines. Although it goes by many names in English, the most common ones are water spinach, river spinach, and Chinese watercress. Regardless of what you call it, ong choy is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish with its unique flavor and texture.