Curry Leaves and Sesame Powder Recipe
Suppose you want a versatile, healthy, and delicious meal addition. In that case, this curry leaves and sesame powder recipe is just what you need! It is a powerhouse of taste and nutrition, packed with the earthy flavors of roasted sesame seeds, the tangy zest of curry leaves, and the mild heat from red chilies. Perfect to pair with steamed rice and ghee or sprinkle over your favorite South Indian dishes, it adds both taste and health benefits to your everyday meals.
This article will guide you through making this easy, flavorful, nutrient-packed curry leaves and sesame powder. Learn the step-by-step process and discover why this simple condiment deserves a permanent place in your pantry.
Ingredients Needed for Curry Leaves and Sesame Powder Recipe
To prepare this healthy and aromatic powder, gather the following ingredients:
– 6 cups of fresh curry leaves
– 1 cup of sesame seeds
– 2 garlic cloves (use one if large)
– 8-12 dry red chilies
– A pinch of tamarind (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: Cumin and coriander seeds (if you prefer a spicier powder)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Curry Leaves and Sesame Powder Recipe
1. Preparing the Curry Leaves:
Start by soaking the curry leaves in water to remove dirt or impurities. Rinse them thoroughly, then spread them out on a clean cloth to dry completely. This is an important step to prevent moisture from ruining the powder’s shelf life. We are using 6 cups of curry leaves for this recipe, but you can adjust the quantity based on your preference.
2. Roasting the Sesame Seeds:
Place a pan on the stove and dry roast 1 cup of sesame seeds over low flame. Stir continuously to prevent burning. The sesame seeds are ready when they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Transfer them to a plate and let them cool. Roasting enhances the flavor and texture of the seeds, making the powder more delicious.
3. Frying the Curry Leaves:
Add the dried curry leaves in the same pan and roast them on low flame for about 30 seconds. This process removes any remaining moisture and intensifies the flavor. Be careful not to over-fry them—the leaves should remain crisp but not burnt.
4. Frying the Dry Red Chilies:
Next, fry the dry red chilies. Adding a pinch of salt while frying enhances their flavor and reduces their spiciness slightly. Fry them until they become crisp and aromatic, then set them aside to cool.
5. Frying the Tamarind (Optional):
If you add tamarind for a tangy twist, fry it briefly in the pan’s residual heat. This prevents the tamarind from becoming too sticky in the powder.
6. Grinding the Ingredients:
Once the roasted ingredients have cooled, it’s time to grind them. Start by grinding the garlic cloves separately. Then, add the roasted dry red chilies, tamarind, and salt to a blender or mixie jar and blend coarsely. Gradually add the roasted sesame seeds and curry leaves in batches, blending until you achieve a coarse powder.
7. Storing the Powder:
Transfer the curry leaves and sesame powder to an airtight container. Ensure that the powder is completely dry before storing it to prevent spoilage. It can stay fresh for weeks in a cool, dry place.
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Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Curry Leaves and Sesame Powder
– With Steamed Rice: Add a spoonful of the powder to hot steamed rice, drizzle with ghee, and mix well for a simple yet heavenly meal.
– As a Spice Mix: Sprinkle it over dosas, idlis, or even toast for an added flavor.
– In Curries and Stir-Fries: Use it as a seasoning to enhance the flavor of vegetable stir-fries or curries.
Health Benefits of Curry Leaves and Sesame Powder
This powder is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Let’s take a closer look at its health benefits:
– Rich in Antioxidants: Curry leaves are packed with antioxidants that help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
– Good for Digestion: Sesame seeds are known for their digestive properties, and the garlic in the powder further aids digestion and promotes gut health.
– Weight Loss Friendly: Curry leaves help reduce fat accumulation, making this powder a great addition to a weight-loss diet.
– Bone Health: Sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones.
FAQs About Curry Leaves and Sesame Powder Recipe
Q: Is there sesame in curry powder?
A: Traditional curry powder (used globally) does not contain sesame. However, this homemade curry leaves and sesame powder is a unique South Indian condiment with sesame seeds for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I skip the garlic in this recipe?
A: You can skip the garlic if you prefer a milder flavor. However, garlic adds a wonderful aroma and additional health benefits.
Q: How long can I store curry leaves and sesame powder?
A: If stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, this powder can stay fresh for 3-4 weeks.
Conclusion: Spice Up Your Meals with This Nutritious Powder
This curry leaves and sesame powder recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful and healthy food. Easy to make, full of aroma, and loaded with health benefits, it’s a simple way to enhance your everyday meals. Whether you enjoy it with rice and ghee or use it as a seasoning for your favorite dishes, this versatile powder will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and experience the magic of homemade spice blends.
Happy cooking, and stay healthy.
