Curry Leaves

2.0: Surprising Ways To Use Curry Leaves

Curry Leaves Chutney And Powders

Indian kitchens find an interesting way to make many ingredients last longer, and this is true for curry leaves as well! One of the many ways to make the curry leaves last longer is to convert them into powders or chutneys. Karuveppilai podi, which is ground chutney or dry curry leaves powder, also highlights the taste and usage of curry leaves beyond tempering. This chutney also makes you aware of the unique taste that curry leaves have without their usual tadka companions like oil, mustard seeds or asafoetida. 

Curry Leaves Infused Snacks

In many Indian snacks, such as chivda or pakoras, curry leaves are deep-fried and then added to these snacks for an extra flavour. The curry leaves absorb all the masalas from these snacks and do not give their bitter taste even when you have it standalone. Its crispy texture and masala-infused taste add more flavour and upgrade the festive snacks.

Curry Leaves Rice

Apart from using it for tempering, curry leaves are also used in the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to make a flavourful rice dish called karuveppilai sadam. This dish is made with the paste of curry leaves and a tempering of spices. This simple paste turns plain rice into a flavourful and fragrant dish, which is also rich in antioxidants and perfect for quick dinners and tiffins. 

Curry Leaves Infused Tea

Owing to its natural digestion-aiding properties, curry leaves can also be utilised to make herbal tea. Put the curry leaves in boiling water and strain them before having. This tea not only aids in digestion but also helps detoxify the body. You can also add ginger or lemon to the tea for some extra flavour and digestive benefits. This tea can be consumed on an empty stomach and even after your meals. 

Hair And Skin Care

Curry leaves are packed with antioxidants, which are beneficial in fighting radicals that cause damage to hair and skin. They also have vitamins like B, C, and E, along with proteins and beta-carotene, which help to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. You can boil curry leaves with coconut oil and methi seeds, and use them as a hair oil. Another way to use the leaves for hair is by making a paste of curry leaves, curd, and soaked methi seeds. These oils and masks help improve overall hair health and are effective in combating dandruff. 

Similarly, curry leaves can also be used in homemade masks made from besan, multani mitti, and curd, which can help reduce acne, blemishes, and other skin disorders and bring a healthy glow. 

More than seasoning for curries and chutneys, curry leaves are a part of Indian kitchens and lifestyle in many ways. They can be used for digestion, detoxification, in snacks, teas, oils, and masks. Incorporating the smallest ingredient, like curry leaves, in your diet can bring bigger changes in your health and overall well-being!