15 Malabar Spinach South Indian Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 30, 2024
Malabar spinach is a popular leafy green vegetable that is commonly used in South Indian cuisine. Known for its unique flavor and health benefits, this versatile ingredient can be used in a variety of dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and soups. However, what makes Malabar spinach truly special is its ability to thrive in hot and humid climates, making it a staple in many South Indian households. In this article, we will explore the history and nutritional value of Malabar spinach and share a delicious South Indian recipe that you can easily make at home.
Main Ingredients: Malabar Spinach, Onion, Tamarind Pulp, Jaggery, Salt
This traditional South Indian dish features tender chicken cooked in a flavorful coconut and spice-based sauce. The addition of Malabar spinach adds a unique twist to this classic recipe, creating a delicious and healthy meal.
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Malabar Spinach in lentils
Main Ingredients: Moong Dal, Malabar Spinach, Oil, Onion, Cumin, Black
If you're looking for a protein-packed and nutritious meal, this Malabar spinach and lentil dish is the way to go. The tender spinach pairs perfectly with the hearty lentils, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.
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Sautéed Malabar spinach with tahini
Main Ingredients: Malabar Spinach, Sesame Seeds, Diced Onion, Oil, Red
For a quick and easy side dish, try this sautéed Malabar spinach with tahini. The creamy tahini sauce adds a delicious nutty flavor to the spinach, making it a perfect accompaniment to any main course.
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Nigerian Afang Soup
Main Ingredients: Malabar Spinach, Leaves, Meat, Snails, Clams, Palm Oil
This traditional Nigerian dish features tender chicken and Malabar spinach simmered in a flavorful broth. The addition of smoked fish and crayfish adds a unique depth of flavor to this comforting and hearty soup.
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Malabar Spinach Grass Carp Fish Fillet Soup
Main Ingredients: Fish, Malabar Spinach, Ginger, Salt
If you're a seafood lover, you'll want to try this unique soup that features tender chicken and Malabar spinach alongside grass carp fish fillets. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to impress.
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Malabar Spinach Stir Fry
Main Ingredients: Malabar Spinach, Ginger, Cooking Oil, Salt
For a quick and easy weeknight meal, try this stir fry with Malabar spinach. The tender spinach pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and spices, creating a delicious and healthy dish that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
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Dr. Mercola’s Keto Salad
Main Ingredients: Lamb, Red Onion, Avocado, Sprouts, Extra Virgin Coconut
This refreshing and healthy salad features tender chicken, Malabar spinach, and a variety of other vegetables and nuts. The addition of a tangy vinaigrette dressing ties all the flavors together for a perfect summer meal.
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Chanchra | Bengali “Mishmash with Fish Head and Veggies
Main Ingredients: Fish, Malabar Spinach, Potato, Pumpkin, Eggplant
This traditional Bengali dish features tender chicken and Malabar spinach alongside a variety of vegetables and fish head. The flavors blend together beautifully, creating a unique and delicious meal.
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Edikaikong (Edikang Ikong Soup)
Main Ingredients: Malabar Spinach, Pumpkin Leaves, Meat, Snails, Shrimp
This hearty and flavorful Nigerian soup features tender chicken and Malabar spinach alongside a variety of other vegetables and spices. The addition of palm oil adds a rich and savory element to this dish.
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Green Shakshuka
Main Ingredients: Tomatillos, Malabar Spinach, Cilantro Leaves, Jalapeno
This Middle Eastern-inspired dish features tender chicken and Malabar spinach cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. The addition of poached eggs adds a delicious and protein-packed twist to this recipe.
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Bread Uttapam, South Indian Snack
Main Ingredients: White Bread, Sooji, All Purpose Flour, Yogurt, Salt
For a unique and tasty snack, try this South Indian-style bread uttapam with tender chicken and Malabar spinach. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
If you're a fan of spicy food, you'll love this South Indian-style egg curry with tender chicken and a variety of spices. The creamy coconut milk adds a delicious and cooling element to this flavorful dish.
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South Indian-style Red Cabbage
Main Ingredients: Red Cabbage, Olive Oil, Mustard Seeds, Curry Leaves
This unique and healthy side dish features tender chicken and Malabar spinach cooked alongside red cabbage. The flavors blend together beautifully, creating a delicious and colorful addition to any meal.
If you're a fan of Indian food, you've likely tried butter chicken before. But have you ever had it with Malabar spinach? The addition of this leafy green adds a unique and nutritious twist to this classic dish.
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South Indian Fish Curry, Meen Kulambu, Fish Pulusu
Main Ingredients: Fish, Rice, Jeera, Fenugreek Seeds, Chana Dal, Oil
This tangy and flavorful fish curry features tender chicken and Malabar spinach alongside a variety of spices and tamarind paste. The combination of flavors in this dish is sure to impress your taste buds.
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Indian Chicken Korma
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Extra Virgin Olive
This creamy and savory dish features tender chicken and Malabar spinach cooked in a flavorful yogurt and spice-based sauce. The addition of cashews adds a delicious and crunchy element to this traditional Indian recipe.
This simple and delicious curry features tender chicken and Malabar spinach cooked in a flavorful coconut and spice-based sauce. The addition of mustard seeds and curry leaves adds a unique and tasty twist to this dish.
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Upma (South Indian Breakfast Dish)
Main Ingredients: Semolina, Onion, Green Chilies, Curry Leaves, Cinnamon
For a unique and flavorful breakfast, try this traditional South Indian dish featuring Malabar spinach and semolina cooked in a variety of spices. The addition of tender chicken adds a hearty and protein-packed element to this dish.
This easy and tasty side dish features tender chicken and Malabar spinach cooked alongside potatoes and a variety of spices. The addition of tender potatoes adds a delicious and hearty element to this dish.
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South Indian Sambar
Main Ingredients: Toor Dal, Oil, Coriander, Cumin Seeds, Asafoetida
This classic South Indian dish features tender chicken and Malabar spinach cooked in a flavorful lentil-based broth. The addition of tamarind pulp adds a tangy and delicious element to this comforting and hearty soup.
The History of Malabar Spinach
Origin and Cultivation
Malabar spinach, also known as basella alba or vine spinach, is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is believed to have been introduced to other parts of the world through trade and colonization. This leafy green is a popular ingredient in South Indian, Malaysian, and Vietnamese cuisine.
Malabar spinach is a climbing plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and has heart-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors, including green, purple, and red. In South India, it is commonly found in home gardens and is also grown commercially.
The Nutritional Value of Malabar Spinach
Malabar spinach is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as iron, calcium, and magnesium. This leafy green is also high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great addition to any diet.
A Delicious South Indian Recipe
Now that you know more about Malabar spinach, let's dive into a simple yet flavorful South Indian recipe that incorporates this nutritious ingredient.
Malabar Spinach Curry
This Malabar spinach curry is a staple in many South Indian households. It is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
1 cup chopped Malabar spinach
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp red chili powder
1 cup coconut milk
Salt to taste
2 tbsp oil
Instructions:
Heat oil in a pan and add cumin and mustard seeds. Once they start to sizzle, add the chopped onions and garlic.
Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
Add the Malabar spinach and cook for a few minutes until it wilts.
Stir in the turmeric, coriander, and red chili powder. Cook for another minute.
Pour in the coconut milk and mix well. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Add salt to taste and serve hot with rice or roti.
Malabar spinach adds a unique flavor and texture to this simple curry, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore South Indian cuisine.
In conclusion, Malabar spinach is not only a delicious and versatile ingredient but also a nutritious addition to any diet. Its history and cultural significance in South India make it a beloved ingredient in many households. So next time you're looking to spice up your meals, give this Malabar spinach curry a try!
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