Agathi Keerai Recipe: A South Indian Delight
Agathi Keerai, a traditional South Indian recipe, is both nutritious and delicious. This vibrant dish, made with Agathi leaves (also known as the Hummingbird Tree leaves), is an excellent source of vitamin A, iron, and calcium, making it an ideal choice for a healthy, fulfilling meal. It is especially popular in Southern India and is often enjoyed as part of a wholesome dinner. You can even pack it in your lunchbox for a nutritious, easy-to-carry meal.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Agathi Keerai
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Agathi keerai (Hummingbird Tree leaves) | 500 grams, washed and chopped |
| Yellow moong dal | 1/4 cup, soaked for 2 hours |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried red chillies | 2, broken into halves |
| Fresh grated coconut | 3 tablespoons |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions to Prepare Agathi Keerai
-
Soak the Moong Dal
Begin by soaking the yellow moong dal in water for 2 to 3 hours. After soaking, drain the water and set the dal aside for use later. -
Cook the Agathi Keerai and Moong Dal
In a pressure cooker, add the Agathi Keerai leaves and the soaked moong dal. Pour in 2 to 3 tablespoons of water, add salt to taste, and cook for about 2 whistles. Once done, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. -
Prepare the Tempering
Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a pan. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds, allowing them to splutter. After about 15 seconds, add the dried red chillies and a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the pan. The tempering will infuse the oil with a delightful aroma. -
Combine the Ingredients
Now, add the cooked Agathi Keerai and dal mixture to the pan. Stir in the fresh grated coconut, jaggery, and a little more salt, mixing everything well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes on medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Serve
After 2 minutes, turn off the gas and serve the Agathi Keerai hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic daal and soft phulkas for a fulfilling meal.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve Agathi Keerai with Garlic Daal and Phulkas (Indian flatbread). This combination makes for a hearty, well-balanced dinner packed with essential nutrients.
Nutritional Benefits of Agathi Keerai
Agathi Keerai is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Here are a few key benefits:
- Rich in Vitamin A: Vital for healthy vision and immune function.
- High in Iron: Helps combat anemia and boosts overall vitality.
- Good Source of Calcium: Essential for bone health.
- High in Fiber: Supports digestive health and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Tips for the Perfect Agathi Keerai
- Moong Dal: Make sure to soak the moong dal for the recommended time to ensure that it cooks perfectly and blends well with the greens.
- Jaggery: Adjust the amount of jaggery depending on your sweetness preference. The slight sweetness of jaggery beautifully balances the flavors of the dish.
- Consistency: If you prefer a slightly soupier consistency, feel free to add a little more water when cooking the Agathi Keerai and dal mixture.
This simple yet flavorful South Indian dish will soon become a favorite in your kitchen, offering both taste and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a wholesome lunch, Agathi Keerai is the perfect dish to prepare and enjoy with your loved ones.
