Explore easy Indian moringa dishes that are tasty and nutrient-rich.
1 Answer
Moringa can be used in curries and sabzis by incorporating its leaves, pods, or even the powder into traditional recipes like sambar, dal, or mixed vegetable dishes. The leaves add a slightly peppery, earthy flavor, while the pods offer a unique texture.
Detailed Explanation:
Moringa, also known as drumstick, is a highly nutritious plant with edible leaves and pods. Here are a few ways to incorporate it into curries and sabzis:
- Moringa Leaf Sabzi: Sauté chopped moringa leaves with onions, garlic, and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. You can add potatoes or other vegetables for a more substantial dish. Cook until the leaves are tender.
- Moringa Pod Curry (Drumstick Curry): Cut moringa pods into 2-3 inch pieces. Sauté onions, ginger, and garlic, then add tomatoes and spices like chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Add the moringa pods and enough water to cover them. Simmer until the pods are tender and the curry has thickened. Coconut milk can be added for a richer flavor.
- Moringa Dal: Prepare your favorite dal recipe (like toor dal or moong dal). Towards the end of the cooking process, add a handful of chopped moringa leaves. Cook for a few more minutes until the leaves are wilted. This adds a nutritional boost and a subtle flavor to the dal.
- Moringa Sambar: Add chopped moringa pods to your regular sambar recipe along with other vegetables like okra, eggplant, and pumpkin. The pods will impart a unique flavor and texture to the sambar.
- Moringa Powder in Gravies: Moringa powder can be added to any curry or sabzi gravy as a nutritional supplement. Add a teaspoon or two towards the end of cooking. Be mindful of the taste, as too much powder can make the dish slightly bitter.
Pro Tip:
When using moringa leaves, choose young, tender leaves as they are less bitter. If using moringa pods, ensure they are cooked thoroughly until tender, as they can be quite tough otherwise.