Indian Recipes

Amaranth Leaves Stir-Fry (Thandu Keerai Poriyal) – Diabetic Friendly South Indian Recipe

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Thandu Keerai Poriyal (Amaranth Leaves Stir-Fry) Recipe

Thandu Keerai Poriyal is a traditional South Indian dish made with fresh amaranth leaves. This nutritious stir-fry is packed with flavor, thanks to the aromatic tempering of spices, curry leaves, and the mild sweetness of grated coconut. Ideal for a diabetic-friendly lunch, it pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian accompaniments like sambar, rasam, and rice.

Ingredients for Thandu Keerai Poriyal:

Ingredient Quantity
Amaranth leaves (washed and chopped) 300 gm
Mustard seeds (Rai) 1/2 tsp
Cumin seeds 1/2 tsp
White urad dal (split black lentils) 1 tsp
Curry leaves 1 sprig
Asafoetida (Hing) 1/4 tsp
Salt To taste
Fresh coconut (grated) 1 tbsp

Preparation Time:

  • 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

  • 15 minutes

Total Time:

  • 35 minutes

Servings:

  • 4 servings

Cuisine:

  • South Indian

Course:

  • Lunch

Diet:

  • Diabetic Friendly

Instructions for Thandu Keerai Poriyal:

  1. Prepare the Amaranth Leaves: Begin by thoroughly washing the amaranth leaves. You can either steam the leaves in a steamer or cook them in a pressure cooker. If using a pressure cooker, add a pinch of salt and a little water. Cook for one whistle, then turn off the heat. Let the pressure release naturally. Once done, remove the amaranth leaves and set them aside in a bowl.

  2. Tempering: In a large pan, heat some oil. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and urad dal. Allow them to sizzle and turn golden brown. This is the base for your flavor.

  3. Add the Aromatics: After the lentils turn golden, add the asafoetida and curry leaves to the pan. Stir for a few seconds to release their aroma.

  4. Mix the Amaranth: Add the cooked amaranth leaves to the tempering in the pan. Stir gently to combine the leaves with the spices and tempering mixture.

  5. Add Coconut: Sprinkle the freshly grated coconut over the stir-fry and mix thoroughly. The coconut adds a lovely sweetness and texture to the dish.

  6. Final Touches: Adjust the salt to taste. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the flavors are well combined.

  7. Serve: Thandu Keerai Poriyal is now ready to serve. Serve it hot with a side of Chow Chow Sambar, Tomato Rasam, rice, and crispy papad for a complete and satisfying meal.


This delightful stir-fry is not only easy to prepare but also brings a wholesome, nutrient-packed dish to your table. The use of amaranth leaves adds a healthy touch to the meal, making it an excellent option for those managing their blood sugar levels. Whether you’re new to South Indian cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, Thandu Keerai Poriyal will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy this dish as a part of your lunch or dinner and delight in the rich flavors of traditional South India!

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