Keerai Masiyal – A Simple South Indian Delight
Keerai Masiyal is a traditional South Indian dish known for its simplicity and delightful flavors. Made with leafy greens such as spinach and amaranth, it is a popular side dish served with rice, making it a staple in many South Indian homes. This dish is known not only for its rich taste but also for its health benefits, packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh greens.
This vibrant dish combines the goodness of leafy greens with the savory flavors of cumin, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and asafoetida, creating a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals. Whether served alongside a comforting bowl of rice and sambar or enjoyed on its own, Keerai Masiyal is sure to please your taste buds.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach (chopped) | 500 gms |
| Amaranth leaves (chopped) | 1 bunch |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| White urad dal | 1 tsp |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Asafoetida | Pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 tsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 kcal |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Sodium | 170 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Vitamin A | 2800 IU |
Instructions
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Prepare the Greens: Start by washing and chopping the spinach and amaranth leaves. Place them in a pressure cooker with about 1 tbsp of water and a pinch of salt. Close the lid and cook for 1 whistle. Once done, release the pressure by placing the cooker under cold water. Set aside.
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Temper the Spices: Heat 1 tsp of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until the spices begin to release their aroma.
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Cook the Greens: Add the cooked spinach and amaranth mixture to the pan. Stir it well and let it cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to blend together. Add salt to taste.
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Final Touches: After 1 minute of cooking, turn off the heat. The Keerai Masiyal is now ready to be served.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve this flavorful Keerai Masiyal with hot rice and a side of Tomato Onion Sambar for a wholesome South Indian meal.
Enjoy the delicious taste of Keerai Masiyal as a healthy side dish, offering you the goodness of leafy greens paired with the aromatic spices that make South Indian cuisine so special.
This quick and nutritious recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal. The combination of amaranth and spinach makes Keerai Masiyal a great source of protein and fiber, ensuring it’s a wholesome addition to your diet. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or seeking a simple dish for lunch or dinner, Keerai Masiyal will undoubtedly impress!
