Today's post is the very simple Manathakkali Keerai Paruppu (dal made with Black nightshade greens). You can use any greens of your choice.
Manathakkali Keerai has many health benefits. They help in curing mouth ulcers and indigestion problems. They are rich in anti-oxidants and has anti-diabetic properties.
Masoor dal is protein-rich and hence aids in weight loss. It is iron-rich as well.
How is this recipe good for PCOS? Well, this protein-rich dal keeps you full for a longer time and prevents you from binge eating. This results in weight loss, which is very important when dealing with PCOS. In general, greens are nutrient-rich, low in calories. Both Spinach and masoor dal have low glycemic index (GI). Low GI foods causes the blood sugar levels to rise slowly, hence it is very useful to reduce the symptoms of PCOS.
Ingredients:
Manathakali Keerai 1 bunch
Masoor Dal 1/2 cup
Onion 1
Tomato 1
Asafoetida pinch
Salt to taste
Mustard Seeds 1 tsp
Cumin Seeds 1/2 tsp
Green Chilli 1
Pre-requisites:
Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly so that it is completely free of mud.
Soak the masoor dal in water for 30 minutes. This will ensure that the dal gets cooked fast.
Method:
Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds and green chilli.
When the seeds splutter, add chopped onions. Saute until they turn translucent.
Add chopped tomatoes. Saute until the tomatoes turn soft.
Add turmeric powder, asafoetida and salt. Mix well.
Add the keerai. Mix well.
Let it simmer for couple of minutes. Then add the masoor dal.
Add water. Cover it and cook until the dal is cooked.
Serve it hot as an accompaniment to rice or roti.
Variations:
Alternatively, you can also cook the dal in pressure cooker. Once the spinach leaves gets wilted, you can add the cooked dal, mix, simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. And serve.