Karuvepilai Podi
Curry leaf or karuvepilai podi is an indispensable powder that must be available in every South Indian kitchen and probably all over India too with many variations . It is one of the. best ways to include a healthy herb in your daily diet such as curry leaf rice or chutney or sprinkle some of this aromatic powder over dry curries .
Tamilian are known to have few must have podis or powders in the kitchen such as the Paruppu Podi aka spiced lentil powder that is usually mixed with rice and ghee and eaten on days when you do not cook elaborate meals to not to forgo the daily protein in diet from little children to elders alike , all enjoy this delicious rice which is so fragrant and all you need is a papad or some fried wafers to go with it .
Another must have podi in the kitchen is the idle podi which is considered as most essential to go with idle dose or any tiffin item .
Similarly the curry leaf powder is compulsory in the kitchen to concoct several dishes or to consume on its own .
Method :
First take a pan add a drop of oil and fry the solid asafoetida if you are not using powder . It will puff up on heating , remove and keep aside .
Next fry the red chilies with another drop of oil and fry till they look crisp without making them black .
Remove and keep aside .
Ext with a drop of oil fry the tamarind pieces till they look crisp .
Next dry fry all the dals except sesame seeds mentioned , till a fine aroma wafts .
Lastly switch off flame and dry roast the sesame seeds till they pop .
If you do not have dry curry leaves , you can either microwave them or roast on a pan on moderate heat .
After cooking all the ingredients, powder germ in a blender till a smooth powder is formed .
Store this fragrant powder in an airtight container.
Curry leaves were found to be highly effective in reducing blood glucose levels. Curry leaves are rich in fibre which slows down digestion, thus preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels in our blood. They also boost the activity of insulin, further helping patients with diabetes.
Health Benefits of Curry Leaves
Powerful antioxidant
Curry leaves are rich in plant compounds which are powerful antioxidants. These compounds keep us healthy and protect us from numerous diseases.
They protect us from oxidative damage, preventing diseases of the nervous system, cardiovascular system, kidneys etc.
May reduce the risk of cancer
Curry leaves have anti-mutagenic potential. They protect our bodies from different types of cancers.
Flavonoids in Curry leaves act as anti-cancer agents. They are effective in inhibiting the growth of breast cancer cells.
Curry leaves also protect the body from colon cancers. Curry leaves are also beneficial in protecting our bodies from cervical cancer.
Curry leaves protect our hearts by preventing oxidative damage. Consumption of Curry leaves also decreases cholesterol levels also reduces the level of triglyceride
Reduction in risk factors thus helps in protecting us from heart diseases.
Consumption of Curry leaves helps in the management of diabetes and its related complications. Curry leaves were found to be highly effective in reducing blood glucose levels.
Curry leaves are rich in fibre which slows down digestion, thus preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels They also boost the activity of insulin, further helping patients with diabetes. There are much more benefits and nutrients in curry leaves which you can google and check for your information.