Kothamalli Karuveppilai Thokku Recipe
Ingredients:
- ½ cup fresh coriander leaves (kothamalli)
- ¼ cup fresh curry leaves (karuveppilai)
- 2–3 dried red chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp tamarind pulp
- 2 tsp grated coconut (optional)
- 1 tsp oil
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp urad dal (optional)
- A pinch of hing (asafoetida)
- Salt to taste
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare Leaves: Wash coriander and curry leaves thoroughly. Pat dry to remove excess water. Removing moisture ensures better grinding and prevents spoilage.
Roast Chilies & Dal: Dry roast red chilies lightly for 1–2 minutes. If using urad dal, roast until golden. This enhances flavor and aroma.
Blend Thokku: In a blender, combine coriander leaves, curry leaves, roasted chilies, tamarind pulp, grated coconut (optional), and salt. Grind to a coarse or fine paste depending on your preference. Add a little water if needed to aid blending.
Tempering: Heat oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds, let them splutter. Add a pinch of hing and pour this over the blended paste. Mix thoroughly.
Serve: Kothamalli Karuveppilai Thokku is ready to be mixed with cooked rice. Serve fresh with plain steamed rice or even as a spread for chapati.
Tips for Best Results:
- Use fresh, tender leaves for a vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
- Avoid washing leaves just before grinding to prevent excess water from diluting the thokku.
- Adding grated coconut balances the strong flavors of curry leaves and coriander.
- Adjust the number of red chilies according to spice tolerance.
- Consume fresh for best taste; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 days.
Health Benefits of Kothamalli Karuveppilai Thokku
This thokku is not just flavorful but also packed with nutrition:
Rich in Antioxidants: Both coriander and curry leaves contain compounds that reduce oxidative stress.
Supports Digestion: curry leaves help with bile secretion, while coriander aids in digestion and relieves bloating.
Blood sugar Regulation: curry leaves and coriander help maintain healthy glucose levels.
Heart Health: The antioxidants and essential oils present help reduce cholesterol and improve circulation.
Immunity Booster: vitamins A, C, and K in coriander and curry leaves strengthen the immune system.
Detoxifying: aids liver function and helps remove toxins from the body.
Enhances Metabolism: The combination of herbs can boost metabolism and improve nutrient absorption.
Conclusion:
Kothamalli Karuveppilai Thokku is a tangy, aromatic, and healthy rice accompaniment. It enhances the flavor of plain rice while providing multiple health benefits, including improved digestion, immunity, and heart health. This simple, traditional preparation is a delicious way to incorporate herbs into your daily meals.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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