with citronellal, which gives them an intense,
fresh, lingering lemon-green character distinct
from that of sweeter citral-flavored
lemongrass (with which it’s often cooked).
Citronellal is named for citronella, its original
and main source, which is a sister species to
lemongrass (Cymbopogon winterianus).
Nasturtium The flowers, leaves, and
immature fruits of the familiar South
American native Tropaeolum major all have a
pungency like that of watercress, and enliven
salads.
Nightshade Nightshade is a relative of the
potato, Solanum torvum, which grows into a
small and short-lived tree. It’s a native of the
West Indies, but is now found throughout
tropical Asia. Its small berry-like fruits are
intensely bitter, and are used in Thailand,
Malaysia, and Indonesia to contribute just that
quality to sauces and salads.