Mullaikeerai Sundal / Keerai Poriyal / Greens Dry Curry

in Poriyal

 

Araikeerai is a green , which is available , throughout the year in Southern parts of India. Greens of different variety , is available in the South . They are Mullaikeerai , Sirukeerai , Araikeerai , Thandu keerai , Paruppukeerai, Pasalakeerai, Sigappukeerai, Menthiakeerai, Manathakkali keerai, Paalak etc ,are the common ones . The greens are used, daily as side dish . They are either used in Kuzhambu or used to make Koottu or Poriyal . They are a rich source of iron and hence it is recommended for women. They are good for heart and brain health .  They help in promoting hair growth and prevent gum disease.

All keerais or greens are available, throughout the year , and are easy to grow in the kitchen gardens .

Ingredients

 

  1. Mullaikeerai     2 bunches
  2. Turmeric Powder   1/2 teaspoon
  3. Salt 1 teaspoon
  4. Oil  1 teaspoon
  5. Urad dal 1/2 teaspoon
  6. Asafoetida  ( hing)   a pinch
  7. Dried red chilies  4  ( broken into two)
  8. Coconut (grated)  a handful
  9. Tuvar dal ( cooked ) 2 tablespoons
  10. Jaggery   1/2 teaspoon

Method

 

 

  • Cut the roots of the greens and clean them , two to three times in running water . Drain well . Chop them roughly .
  • In a Pressure cooker , cook the greens,  adding turmeric powder  and salt. Cook till soft, but not mushy .
  • In a shallow pan , add oil . Add mustard, when oil is hot . When it crackles , add urad dal and red chilies .
  • Add the cooked greens and stir. Add jaggery, asafoetida  and dal .Mix well for a minute or so.
  • Garnish with coconut and serve with rice .
  • Use fresh greens always .