In this episode, we’re breaking format, and serving you up an audio-documentary-style entree. Our producer, Hieu Huynh takes us to her home state of Georgia, where she’s examining how water spinach has become a unifying force for the Vietnamese community – a symbol of resilience, adaptation, and the ongoing negotiation between cultural heritage and the environment.

Though not as well-known as bok choy or chinese broccoli, this vegetable is a staple in many Asian cuisines, and in Vietnamese cooking in particular.

It’s also on the USDA’s noxious plant list… and is considered a “plant pest” in Georgia.

In true Meaty fashion, Hieu’s exploration into this complex relationship of power, identity, and privilege, ultimately asks, “What happens when upholding foodways comes into conflict with the laws of the land?”

Further Reading:

Learn more about community activist Le Doan and her work with the Vietnamese American Community of Georgia here

Read about Dr. Sarah Kuebbing’s work with the Yale School of the Environment here

Discover State Representative Marvin Lim’s work with the Asian American community in Georgia here

Keep up-to-date on the progress made by Prof. Timothy Coolong and the University of Georgia’s School of Agriculture here

Want to cook water spinach? Check out these recipes!

This episode of Meat and Three was reported by Hieu Huynh

Our lead producer on this episode was Hieu Huynh, with support from Bean Metcalf, Maya Okindo, and Taylor Graham.

Meat and Three is produced by H Conley and Taylor Early.

Our audio engineer for this episode was Sam Gerardi.

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Fight for Your Greens: Cultural Preservation, Environmental Regulation & Water Spinach