Methi Leaves Curry (Methi Ki Sabzi) Recipe
Methi (fenugreek) leaves curry, a staple in North Indian cuisine, is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Methi leaves are rich in iron and fiber, making them a great addition to your meals. The slight bitterness of methi is balanced with the addition of besan (gram flour), resulting in a flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with roti or raita. This curry can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner and is a perfect dish for those who want to enjoy a healthy and tasty vegetarian meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Methi (fenugreek leaves), finely chopped | 1 cup |
| Besan (gram flour) | ½ cup |
| Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic, grated | 5 cloves |
| Cumin seeds (jeera) | ½ teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | ⅓ teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt, to taste | – |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time:
30 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Instructions:
-
Wash and Prepare Methi Leaves:
Begin by washing the methi leaves thoroughly under running water for about 2-3 minutes to remove any dirt. Once clean, set them aside to drain. -
Heat Oil in a Pan:
In a medium-sized kadhai (wok), heat the oil on medium flame. Add the grated garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown. -
Add Cumin Seeds:
Once the garlic is browned, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 10-15 seconds to release their aroma. -
Cook Methi Leaves:
Add the methi leaves to the pan and sauté for 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the leaves cook evenly. -
Add Water:
Add about ½ cup of water and allow it to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the methi leaves to soften. -
Add Spices:
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and sugar to the pan. Stir well to combine all the spices with the methi mixture. -
Prepare the Besan Mixture:
In a small bowl, add the besan (gram flour) and 1-2 tablespoons of water. Mix it thoroughly with your fingers to form a smooth paste. -
Combine Besan with Methi:
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the besan mixture to the pan, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. Add another ½ cup of water if needed, but do not exceed ½ cup. -
Cook and Stir:
Cover the kadhai and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally with a spatula to prevent the curry from sticking to the pan. The besan will cook and thicken the curry. -
Final Touch:
Once the besan is cooked through and the curry has thickened, add lemon juice to balance the flavors. -
Serve:
Methi ki sabzi is now ready! Serve it hot with roti or a side of raita for a complete meal.
Nutritional Benefits:
Methi leaves are known for their health benefits, such as aiding in digestion, improving blood sugar control, and boosting iron levels. The addition of besan adds protein and fiber, making this dish both nutritious and filling. This curry is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet.
Allergen Information:
This recipe contains besan (gram flour), which may not be suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities. If you are allergic to gram flour, you can try substituting it with rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely plant-based and does not include any animal products, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: As long as you substitute the besan with a gluten-free flour option, this dish can easily be made gluten-free.
- Vegan: The recipe is vegan-friendly, as it does not contain any dairy or animal-based ingredients.
Tips and Suggestions:
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the quantity of red chili powder or omit it entirely.
- To make the curry richer, you can add a little bit of fresh cream or cashew paste towards the end of cooking, but this is optional.
- If you like a bit of crunch, you can top the dish with roasted peanuts or cashews for added texture.
- This dish also pairs well with a side of dal (lentils) or a simple yogurt-based raita.
Conclusion:
Methi Ki Sabzi (Methi Leaves Curry) is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the goodness of methi and besan in a way that is both healthy and delicious. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, this curry is sure to satisfy your taste buds while providing essential nutrients. Pair it with roti or rice, and you’ve got yourself a complete meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and the nutritional benefits of this wonderful North Indian recipe!
