Ingredients:
- 1 cup murungai keerai (drumstick leaves), washed and chopped
- 1/4 cup raw rice (sona masoori or ponni), soaked for 30 minutes
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp ginger, finely chopped or grated
- 2 dried red chilies
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- A few curry leaves
Instructions:
1. Cook Rice: Drain soaked rice and pressure cook with 4 cups water until soft and mushy (about 3-4 whistles).
2. Add drumstick Leaves: Open the cooker and add chopped murungai keerai and salt. Close and cook for another whistle to blend flavors.
3. Prepare Tempering: Heat oil or ghee in a small pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, asafoetida, ginger, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
4. Mix Tempering: Pour the tempering into the cooked rice and drumstick leaves mixture. Stir well.
5. Simmer: If the khanji is too thick, add some hot water to adjust consistency. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve: Serve warm as a light meal or digestive broth.
Tips for Perfect Murungai Keerai Khanji
- Use fresh drumstick leaves for best taste and nutrition.
- Soak rice beforehand to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Adjust water quantity for desired consistency—thin for a broth-like khanji or thick for a porridge.
- Tempering adds flavor and boosts nutritional absorption—don’t skip it.
- You can add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang and vitamin C.
- Use ghee for a richer flavor and added health benefits.
Health Benefits of Murungai Keerai Khanji
- Nutrient Dense: drumstick leaves are packed with vitamins A, C, calcium, iron, and antioxidants.
- Boosts Immunity: Rich in vitamin c and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system.
- Supports Digestion: aids in digestion and relieves acidity and stomach discomfort.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation and supports overall health.
- Good for Anemia: High iron content helps improve hemoglobin levels.
- Detoxifying: Helps cleanse the liver and blood.
- Weight Friendly: Low in calories and filling, ideal for weight management and detox diets.
Murungai Keerai Khanji is a simple, nourishing dish perfect for detox, postpartum recovery, or when you want a comforting, healthy meal.
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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