Cha-om or climbing wattle — ชะอม (Cha-om) — Acacia pennata
Acacia pennata, also known as climbing wattle, cha-om in Thai, is a shrub or small tree native to South and Southeast Asia. It is particularly common in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. The plant is valued for its edible young leaves and stems, which are used in various dishes.
See our Pad Woon Sen Cha-om — Thai stir-fried glass noodle dish with Acacia pennata leaves (Cha-om).
If you like to order this (and other Authentic plant-based Thai Dishes) click here
It is also used medicinally in traditional folk medicine.
Acacia pennata is a thorny shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5 meters (16 feet) tall. It has bipinnate leaves with linear-oblong and glabrous pinnules. The flowers are yellowish and are borne in terminal panicles with globose heads. The pods are thin, flat, and long with thick sutures.
The young leaves and stems of Acacia pennata are a popular ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine. They have a slightly bitter flavor and a slightly sticky texture. They are often cooked with fish, meat, or vegetables. Some common dishes that use Acacia pennata include:
* Tom Yum soup: A hot and sour soup that is a staple of Thai cuisine. Acacia pennata is one of the key ingredients in Tom Yum soup.
* Green curry: A Thai curry that is made with coconut milk, green chilies, and a variety of vegetables. Acacia pennata is often added to green curry to add a slightly bitter flavor.
* Laap: A Laotian dish that is made with minced meat or fish, lemongrass, chili peppers, and lime juice. Acacia pennata is often added to laap to add a slightly sour flavor.
Medicinal Uses
Acacia pennata has been used in traditional folk medicine for a variety of purposes, including:
- Treating stomachache: The leaves and stems of Acacia pennata are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe an upset stomach.
* Reducing pain: The leaves and stems of Acacia pennata are also believed to have analgesic properties that can help to reduce pain.
* Improving digestion: The leaves and stems of Acacia pennata are thought to promote the production of digestive enzymes, which can help to improve digestion.