Kh'merican Backyard Gardening. Vegetables and Herbs

Luffa Sponge Gourds. 

កញ្ឆែត, Aquatic Mimosa (Neptuniae Oleraceae) is an indigenous food for the Khmers. My great-grandparents harvested the tender parts,  eatten anyway he liked. Enjoyed it cooked or raw & fresh. In an herbs platter,  blanched, stir fry, soup, and stew. Preparation to be considered: Peel off the floating foam, soaking  it in salt water for 10-15 minutes  to wash. As this will help eliminating bacteria. Especially if you're planing on serving it raw & fresh. How to? Treat it as you would with other veggies.  A native to Cambodia.   A tender perennial in USDA zone 9a with overhead protection in winter months.