Karnataka Style Harive Soppu Bendi Recipe: Amaranth Leaves Cooked in Coconut Broth
Karnataka cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors and nutritious ingredients, and the Harive Soppu Bendi, or Amaranth Leaves Cooked in Coconut Broth, is a quintessential dish that exemplifies the region’s culinary charm. This delightful recipe combines the earthy goodness of green amaranth leaves with the rich creaminess of coconut, resulting in a dish that is both healthy and satisfying. Whether served as a side dish with steaming hot rice or enjoyed on its own, this preparation will surely delight your taste buds. Let’s explore how to bring this authentic Karnataka dish to your table!
Ingredients
Here is a detailed list of the ingredients required to prepare Karnataka Style Harive Soppu Bendi:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Amaranth Leaves | A bunch |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1 cup |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chilli | 1 |
| Jaggery (crushed) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | ½ teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chilli | 1 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Sunflower Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
Below is the nutritional information for a serving of Karnataka Style Harive Soppu Bendi, which serves four people:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Preparation Time
| Task | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 |
| Cooking | 10 |
| Total Time | 20 |
Servings
This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends.
Course
- Cuisine: Karnataka
- Course: Side Dish
- Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions
To embark on your culinary journey of preparing Karnataka Style Harive Soppu Bendi, follow these detailed steps to ensure a delightful result:
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Preparation of Amaranth: Begin by thoroughly cleaning and washing the green amaranth leaves. Once washed, rough chop the leaves and set them aside. This step is crucial as it helps to remove any grit and ensures that the greens are clean and ready to absorb the flavors.
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Making the Coconut Paste: In a mixer grinder, combine the grated coconut, cumin seeds, and green chilli. Add a little water to facilitate blending. Blend these ingredients into a smooth paste. This aromatic coconut masala will add a wonderful creaminess and flavor to the dish.
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Cooking the Amaranth: In a large pot, add the chopped amaranth leaves, 2 cups of water, and crushed jaggery. Cook over medium heat until the leaves wilt, which should take about 5–7 minutes. The jaggery not only balances the bitterness of the greens but also adds a subtle sweetness to the broth.
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Incorporating the Coconut Paste: Once the greens have wilted, add the prepared coconut masala paste to the pot. Stir well to combine the flavors and let the mixture simmer for an additional 10 minutes. During this time, the coconut will meld beautifully with the amaranth, creating a luscious broth.
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Seasoning the Dish: After simmering, season the dish with salt according to your taste. Mix well and keep it aside to allow the flavors to deepen.
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Preparing the Tempering (Tadka): In a small frying pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and split urad dal. Allow them to splutter and become fragrant. Next, carefully add the asafoetida, dry red chilli, and curry leaves. Let them crackle for a few seconds, releasing their flavors into the oil.
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Finishing Touches: Once the tempering is ready, turn off the heat and transfer the hot tadka over the simmering amaranth and coconut mixture. This step infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma and a delightful crunch.
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Serving Suggestion: Serve the Karnataka Style Harive Soppu Bendi piping hot alongside steamed rice. For a complete meal, accompany it with Hunase Saaru Recipe (Mysore Style Spicy Tamarind Rasam), Gorikayi Palya Recipe, and some elai vadam for a simple yet nourishing weekday lunch that celebrates the flavors of Karnataka.
Tips for the Perfect Harive Soppu Bendi
- Freshness Matters: Using fresh amaranth leaves will significantly enhance the taste of this dish, so try to use them as soon as possible after purchasing.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of green chilli according to your spice tolerance. You can also add more jaggery if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
The Karnataka Style Harive Soppu Bendi is not just a side dish; it embodies the essence of Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage. The vibrant flavors of amaranth leaves, combined with the nutty coconut and the aromatic tempering, create a comforting and wholesome meal. As you prepare this delightful dish, you’re not only nourishing your body but also indulging in a culinary tradition that has been cherished for generations. Enjoy this recipe with family and friends, and let the flavors of Karnataka bring warmth and joy to your dining table!
