From branch to bounty (Spinach tree)

Dec 12, 2024

It all began with a simple, sturdy branch - a small gift from a friend to Elisabeth. Planted in the Kalahari sands, that branch has since blossomed into a flourishing grove of Chaya trees at Gobelo Farm. Each tree stands as a quiet testament to resilience, resourcefulness and the power of nature.

Chaya isn’t your average plant. In a region where most vegetation struggles, this leafy wonder defies the odds. It barely needs water, demands no special care and thrives in the sands other plants wouldn’t dare call home. It’s the ultimate “set-it-and-forget-it” plant - drop it in the ground and let nature do the rest.

Here’s the twist though: Chaya contains cyanide! Yes, the same one that features in spy thrillers. This built-in defense keeps pests (and even elephants) away. In a place where critters love to snack, Chaya’s “No Trespassing” sign is a lifesaver.

At Gobelo Restaurant, Chaya shines as a star ingredient. After a quick ten-minute boil to remove the cyanide, it transforms into a delicious, nutrient-packed addition to meals. Whether folded into a Potato Skillet for breakfast, stirred into Peanut Stew, or adding a pop of green to the traditional dinner buffet, Chaya proves that simple ingredients, prepared well, can be extraordinary. It’s also the perfect partner for Zimbabwe’s classic sadza and greens.

But Chaya is more than just flavor - it is truly versatile in action. It adds richness to our sugo sauce, heartiness to white bean pastas and a boost of health to every bite. It connects us to the land around us and the stories it carries.

Chaya isn’t just a hit with humans, either. At the farm, livestock love it too. Mixed into feed, it keeps pigs, chickens, ducks and sheep thriving, boosting production and fighting off illness. Despite its cyanide content, it manages to nourish without harm. If the animals could write reviews, Chaya would have five stars and glowing comments like, “My feathers have never looked better!” or “This leaf really changed my wool game!”

From a humble branch to the heart of Gobelo Farm, our Chaya’s journey is one of resilience, abundance and the quiet wonders of nature. Whether it’s on your plate at Gobelo Restaurant, nourishing livestock, or feeding families in the community, Chaya shows that resilience grows wherever you plant it - even in the sands of the Kalahari.

Much like Gwango itself, Chaya is rooted in tradition, thriving through resilience and always here to nourish those who visit us. Come and see!