Name: Kerala Style Cheera Thoran | Spinach Stir Fry | Nadan Cheera Thoran
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 5 cups Cheera leaves (Spinach); 1/2 of one Coconut (Grated); 3 nos. Green chillies; 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder; 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds (Jeerakam); 3 tbsp Coconut oil; 4 nos Garlic cloves; 2 nos Dry red chillies (Kollamulaku); 2 tsp Rice (Pachari/Puzhukkalari); 1 tsp Mustard seeds; Salt (As reqd); Curry leaves (Few)

Kerala Style Cheera Thoran | Spinach Stir Fry | Nadan Cheera Thoran

A Flavorful Journey To A Traditional Delight

If you are a food enthusiast and looking forward to explore the diverse culinary landscape of India, then Kerala should be at the top list. Nestled in the south western coast of India, Kerala boasts a culinary heritage, which is reflected in the delectable cuisine. Among a myriad of mouthwatering dishes, Spinach Stir Fry stands out a true embodiment of culinary artistry and authentic flavors.

Introduction To Spinach Stir Fry

Spinach Stir Fry is a popular Kerala dish that celebrates goodness of spinach, locally known as Cheera’. With the harmonious blend of flavors and the vibrant hue, Nadan Cheera Thoran encapsulates the essence of Kerala’s traditional cooking. It is a dry vegetarian dish that is prepared by sauteing chopped spinach with an array of flavorful spices, grated coconut and sometimes seasoned with mustard seeds and curry leaves.

Embracing Kerala’s Unique Culinary Philosophy

Kerala Cuisine is deep rooted in Ayurveda, an ancient system of holistic healing. Ayurveda emphasizes locally sourced natural ingredients to create nutritious and health promoting dishes. Cheera Thoran is no exception. Spinach loaded with vital nutrients like antioxidants, iron and vitamins, ensures that every bite of this humble veggie is a step towards the well being of an individual.

Art Of Kerala Cooking

Kerala Style Cheera Thoran represents the culinary finesse of Kerala. The dish exemplifies a traditional type of cooking where purity and simplicity is revered. The process of preparation involves finely chopping the spinach leaves to preserve the color and texture. Addition of coconut elevates taste, adding a gentle creaminess that perfectly balances the earthiness of cheera.

Symphony Of Flavors

The secret behind the enchanting flavor of Cheera Toran lies in the harmonious blend of spices. Cumin seeds, green chillies, garlic and turmeric are skillfully combined to create a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Unlike other Indian dishes, Nadan Cheera Thoran stays away from excessive heat, allowing the natural flavors of ingredients to shine through.

Ingrained in Kerala’s Cultural Celebrations

In Kerala, food is more than just sustenance. It is an integral part of festivities and culture. Cheera Thoran finds place in numerous occasions, be it an Onam celebration, the vibrant temple festivals or an intimate family gathering. Sharing a meal that includes the dish, brings a sense of joy and togetherness making it a symbol of love and unity.

Conclusion:

Kerala Style Cheera Thoran is more than a dish, it is a testament of Kerala’s culinary heritage and deep rooted traditions. With its health benefits, wholesome flavors and visual appeal, Nadan Cheera Thoran promises a gastronomic experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to relish this delectable dish that encapsulates the spirit of God’s Own Country.

Kerala Style Cheera Thoran | Spinach Stir Fry | Nadan Cheera Thoran

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 15

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Kerala

Servings people

Ingredients

5 cups Cheera leaves Spinach
1/2 of one Coconut Grated
3 nos. Green chillies
1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
1/2 tsp Cumin seeds Jeerakam
3 tbsp Coconut oil
4 nos Garlic cloves
2 nos Dry red chillies Kollamulaku
2 tsp Rice Pachari/Puzhukkalari
1 tsp Mustard seeds
Salt As reqd
Curry leaves Few

Instructions

For preparing the delicious side dish, first clean the leaves well and chop it finely.
Grind togeter grated coconut, turmeric powder, green chillies, cumin seeds, garlic and curry leaves into a coarse form.
:- Do not add water while grinding.
Mix together the chopped cheera along with the coconut mixture and salt.
Heat oil in a pan or a kadai.
Splutter mustard seeds and saute dry red chillies, rice and curry leaves.
Add the cheera-coconut mixture and mix well.
Cover and cook on a low flame for about 1 to 2 mins.
Remove the lid and continue cooking the thoran till done on a low flame itself.
:- If it gets overcooked, it tends to lose it`s red colour. So, make sure you don't overcook it.