My husband loves the outdoors and is a passionate gardener. In summer, he grows various vegetables in our garden including amaranth red and green plants. This summer, we were fortunate to get an abundant growth of amaranth greens. It tastes like spinach but is more heartier in texture and flavour. Cooks easily and very popular in Indian cooking. Also, known as chauli or chaulai in Hindi. This recipe is quick and simple. All the ingredients are cooked together except for grated coconut which is sprinkled at the end. Pictures of our garden and produce can be viewed under Gardening section on the site.
Amaranth is considered a superfood as it is loaded with antioxidants, proteins, minerals and vitamins. High in iron content, it is good for anemic patients. Similar to beets, swiss chard and spinach but far more superior in nutritional value. According to homeopathic and ayurvedic experts, both the seeds and leaves of amaranth are noted for its amazing health benefits. The leaves are an excellent home remedy for hair loss and premature greying. Also works as an effective mouthwash for treating mouth sores, swollen gums and sore throat. They reduce bad cholesterol, controls blood sugar levels, stabilizes blood pressure, protects against cancer, improves digestion and contributes towards healthy vision.
Amaranth is considered a superfood as it is loaded with antioxidants, proteins, minerals and vitamins. High in iron content, it is good for anemic patients. Similar to beets, swiss chard and spinach but far more superior in nutritional value. According to homeopathic and ayurvedic experts, both the seeds and leaves of amaranth are noted for its amazing health benefits. The leaves are an excellent home remedy for hair loss and premature greying. Also works as an effective mouthwash for treating mouth sores, swollen gums and sore throat. They reduce bad cholesterol, controls blood sugar levels, stabilizes blood pressure, protects against cancer, improves digestion and contributes towards healthy vision.
Amaranth Greens from our garden
Amaranth Greens
(Serves 8)
Ingredients:
1 kg amaranth greens (chopped finely, around 8 cups)
1 onion (chopped, around two cups)
2 green chillies (slit)
1 tomato (chopped)
1/3 cup masoor dal or split red lentils
1/3 cup grated coconut
2 tablespoons oil
salt
Method:
Separate the leaves and tender stalks from the thicker stems. Discard the thick stems, chop leaves and tender stalks finely. Wash greens with masoor dal using a colander. Ensure that the colander holes are small so that the lentils don't pass through.
In a pan, add all the ingredients except for grated coconut. Cook without water on medium flame till masoor dal is soft and vegetable cooked. Sprinkle grated coconut at the end. Serve as a side dish with rice and fish curry.
Note:
(Serves 8)
Ingredients:
1 kg amaranth greens (chopped finely, around 8 cups)
1 onion (chopped, around two cups)
2 green chillies (slit)
1 tomato (chopped)
1/3 cup masoor dal or split red lentils
1/3 cup grated coconut
2 tablespoons oil
salt
Method:
Separate the leaves and tender stalks from the thicker stems. Discard the thick stems, chop leaves and tender stalks finely. Wash greens with masoor dal using a colander. Ensure that the colander holes are small so that the lentils don't pass through.
In a pan, add all the ingredients except for grated coconut. Cook without water on medium flame till masoor dal is soft and vegetable cooked. Sprinkle grated coconut at the end. Serve as a side dish with rice and fish curry.
Note:
- Use this recipe for cooking spinach instead of amaranth greens.
- Link on how to grow amaranth: http://www.celebrationinmykitchen.com/green-amaranth-chauli-or-chaulai