Agathi Keerai Recipe
Agathi Keerai, also known as the Hummingbird Tree Leaves, is a popular South Indian leafy green that is renowned for its slightly bitter taste and numerous health benefits. This nutritious green is a rich source of Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium, all of which contribute to bone health and overall well-being. Agathi Keerai can be consumed in various forms, either as juice or in a cooked vegetable dish like this one, to reap its full benefits.
This Agathi Keerai recipe combines the healthful green leaves with Yellow Moong Dal to create a flavorful, comforting dish. The recipe is both simple and quick, making it a perfect addition to your dinner menu, especially when paired with Steamed Rice or Mixed Vegetable Sambar.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Agathi Keerai (Hummingbird Tree Leaves) | 500 grams, washed and coarsely chopped |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/4 cup, soaked for 2 hours |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 pieces |
| Fresh Coconut | 3 tablespoons, grated |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Instructions
-
Cook the Greens and Dal:
Start by cooking the Agathi Keerai (hummingbird tree leaves) and Yellow Moong Dal. Ensure the dal has been soaking for about 2 hours before beginning this recipe. After soaking, drain any excess water from the dal. -
Pressure Cook:
Place the coarsely chopped Agathi Keerai and soaked Moong Dal into a pressure cooker. Add about 2 to 3 tablespoons of water and sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the mixture for about 2 whistles on medium heat. Once the whistles are done, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. This will ensure the greens and dal are tender and well-cooked. -
Prepare the Seasoning:
While waiting for the pressure to release, heat oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dry red chillies, and asafoetida (hing). Let them crackle for a few seconds, releasing their aromatic flavors. -
Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked Agathi Keerai and Moong Dal mixture into the pan with the seasoning. Stir in fresh grated coconut, jaggery, and adjust the salt to taste. Mix gently, ensuring that the jaggery dissolves evenly and all the flavors combine well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the jaggery infuse its sweetness into the dish. -
Serve:
Once everything is well combined, turn off the heat and transfer the dish to a serving bowl. This delicious Agathi Keerai preparation is ready to be enjoyed!
Serving Suggestions
Agathi Keerai can be paired with Steamed Rice or served as a side dish along with Mixed Vegetable Sambar for a wholesome South Indian dinner. The natural bitterness of the Agathi Keerai, along with the sweetness of jaggery, creates a balanced flavor that will delight your taste buds.
Nutritional Benefits of Agathi Keerai
Agathi Keerai is loaded with essential nutrients that promote overall health, especially for bone strength. Here’s a breakdown of its key benefits:
- Rich in Vitamin A: Promotes good eyesight and healthy skin.
- High in Iron: Helps in the production of red blood cells and prevents anemia.
- Calcium: Vital for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
This dish is a wonderful way to incorporate these health benefits into your diet while savoring the unique flavors of South Indian cuisine.
Enjoy this healthy, flavorful Agathi Keerai dish, and share it with your loved ones for a truly nourishing meal!
Agathi Keerai is a staple in South Indian kitchens, cherished not only for its health benefits but also for its versatility in different recipes. Whether consumed as juice or in a cooked dish, this green leaf plays a crucial role in promoting health and wellness.
