Organic Fresh Thimare Leaves Overview
Thimare leaves, also known as Purslane or Verdolaga, are succulent, leafy greens often used in culinary dishes. Known for their unique, slightly tangy flavor, these leaves are packed with nutrients and can be enjoyed raw or cooked.
Nutritional Value of Thimare Leaves (per 100g):
- Calories: 16 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 3.4 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1.2 g
- Protein: 1.3 g
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Vitamin A: 20 µg (2% of the daily recommended intake)
- Vitamin C: 21 mg (35% of the daily recommended intake)
- Calcium: 65 mg (6% of the daily recommended intake)
- Iron: 0.2 mg (1% of the daily recommended intake)
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.1 g
Health Benefits of Thimare Leaves:
- Rich in Nutrients: High in vitamins A, C, and E, which are essential for skin and immune health.
- Antioxidant Properties: Contains antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Heart Health: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
- Bone Health: Provides calcium and magnesium, contributing to strong bones.
- Weight Management: Low in calories and high in fiber, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
How to Eat Thimare Leaves:
- Raw: Use fresh in salads or sandwiches for a crunchy texture.
- Sautéed: Cook briefly with garlic and olive oil as a side dish.
- In Soups: Add to soups for extra nutrition and flavor.
- As a Wrap: Use leaves to wrap fillings like meats or vegetables.
Recipes Using Thimare Leaves
Indian Recipes
1. Thimare Leaves Stir-Fry
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Ingredients:
- Thimare leaves: 2 cups, chopped
- Onion: 1, sliced
- Green chili: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt: to taste
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Method:
- Heat oil in a pan; add sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and green chili; sauté for a minute.
- Add chopped Thimare leaves and salt; stir-fry until wilted.
2. Thimare Leaves Curry
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Ingredients:
- Thimare leaves: 2 cups, chopped
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Tomato: 1, chopped
- Coconut: 1/2 cup, grated
- Mustard seeds: 1 tsp
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 tsp
- Oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt: to taste
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Method:
- Heat oil in a pan; add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until golden.
- Add chopped tomato, turmeric powder, and salt; cook until soft.
- Stir in Thimare leaves and grated coconut; cook for 5-7 minutes.
3. Thimare Leaves Paratha
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Ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour: 2 cups
- Thimare leaves: 1 cup, chopped
- Cumin powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: to taste
- Water: as needed
- Ghee/oil: for cooking
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Method:
- In a bowl, mix whole wheat flour, chopped Thimare leaves, cumin powder, and salt.
- Gradually add water to form a dough; knead until smooth.
- Divide into balls; roll out into parathas.
- Cook on a hot griddle with ghee until golden brown on both sides.
4. Thimare Leaves Raita
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Ingredients:
- Thimare leaves: 1 cup, chopped
- Yogurt: 1 cup
- Cucumber: 1/2, grated
- Cumin powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: to taste
- Cilantro: for garnish
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Method:
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, chopped Thimare leaves, grated cucumber, cumin powder, and salt.
- Mix well and garnish with cilantro. Serve chilled.
5. Thimare Leaves and Lentil Soup
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Ingredients:
- Thimare leaves: 2 cups, chopped
- Lentils: 1 cup, soaked
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
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Method:
- Heat olive oil in a pot; sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add soaked lentils, vegetable broth, and salt; bring to a boil.
- Add Thimare leaves and simmer until lentils are cooked.
- Blend until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
Non-Indian Recipes
1. Thimare Leaves Salad
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Ingredients:
- Thimare leaves: 2 cups, chopped
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Cucumber: 1/2, diced
- Feta cheese: 1/4 cup, crumbled
- Olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
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Method:
- In a bowl, combine Thimare leaves, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
2. Thimare Leaves Quiche
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Ingredients:
- Thimare leaves: 1 cup, chopped
- Eggs: 4
- Milk: 1 cup
- Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- Pie crust: 1 (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
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Method:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Place Thimare leaves and cheese in the pie crust; pour the egg mixture over.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden.
3. Sautéed Thimare Leaves with Garlic
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Ingredients:
- Thimare leaves: 2 cups, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
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Method:
- Heat olive oil in a pan; add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add Thimare leaves and sauté for 5-7 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
4. Thimare Leaves and Feta Stuffed Peppers
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Ingredients:
- Bell peppers: 4, halved and seeded
- Thimare leaves: 1 cup, chopped
- Feta cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
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Method:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix Thimare leaves, feta cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the mixture into the bell pepper halves and place in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the peppers are tender.
5. Thimare Leaves Pesto
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Ingredients:
- Thimare leaves: 2 cups
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Pine nuts: 1/4 cup (or walnuts)
- Olive oil: 1/2 cup
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup, grated
- Salt and pepper: to taste
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Method:
- In a food processor, combine Thimare leaves, garlic, and pine nuts; blend until coarsely chopped.
- With the processor running, gradually add olive oil until smooth.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Serve with pasta or as a spread.
Thimare leaves are a versatile ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes, both traditional and modern. Feel free to explore and enjoy them in your cooking!