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Curry leaves provide a unique aroma to curries. In addition to their culinary uses, they have medicinal benefits.
They are also known as sweet neem leaves, curry leaf tree, etc., and belong to the Rutaceae (citrus) family.
Fresh curry leaves
Fresh curry leaves are bright green, fragrant, and widely used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. They offer a citrusy, earthy flavor and are often added to tempering oil, curries, soups, and chutneys. These leaves are also used for garnishing and are prized for their intense aroma and taste.
Dried curry leaves
Dried leaves are prepared by air-drying or sun-drying the leaves. Dried curry leaves have a milder aroma and flavor compared to fresh ones but are still used to add a subtle taste to curries, rice dishes, and dals. They are convenient for long-term storage but lose some of their potency.
Frozen curry leaves
Fresh curry leaves can be preserved in the freezer to retain their flavor and aroma. Frozen curry leaves maintain more of their original essence than dried ones and can be used directly in cooking without thawing. They are ideal for consumers who want quick access to fresh-like leaves.
Curry leaf powder
Curry leaf powder is made by drying and grinding curry leaves into a fine powder. It is commonly used as a spice in Indian and Ayurvedic medicine. The powder is used for adding curry leaves in dishes where the whole leaves may not be suitable, such as in marinades, spice mixes, or as a nutritional supplement.
Curry leaf oil
Curry leaf essential oil is extracted from the leaves through steam distillation or cold pressing. It is mainly used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. It is not typically used in cooking as a food oil due to its concentrated form. However, it still carries the therapeutic properties of curry leaves.
Curry leaf tea
Curry leaf tea is made by steeping fresh or dried leaves in hot water, known for its detoxifying and weight management properties. It has an earthy, herbal flavor and is consumed as a health drink. It is prepared both as a fresh tea and an infusion with dried leaves.
Curry leaves are versatile and commonly used in cooking, health, and beauty applications.
Culinary uses
Curry leaves are a staple in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines. They are added whole to dishes like curries, stews, and soups during cooking. In South Indian dishes like dosa and idli, they are often included in chutneys and rasam.
In northern Indian cooking, they are added to biryanis, pulao, and other rice dishes. In the tempering process, they are fried briefly in hot oil or ghee along with other spices. The aromatic leaves infuse the oil with flavor, which is then absorbed by the other ingredients once added.
As a garnish
Fresh curry leaves are often used as a garnish in Indian and Sri Lankan dishes. They add a burst of green color and a fragrant aroma. Add them to curries, soups, and rice before serving for a boost in flavor and visual appeal.
In beverages
Curry leaf tea is an infusion made by steeping fresh or dried curry leaves in hot water. It is consumed for health benefits like detoxification, managing blood sugar levels, and aiding digestion. The leaves are sometimes combined with other herbs. Examples include mint, ginger, or lemon grass, for added flavor and health benefits.
Flatbreads and snacks
Curry leaves are also added to batter for making savory pancakes or fritters in Indian cuisine. It is called “karakuzhambu” in Tamil Nadu and “vadaney” in Karnataka. The leaves are included in dough for making stuffed flatbreads like parathas or naan.
From savory snacks, the leaves are mixed with roasted nuts, seeds, and other spices for flavorful snack mixtures.
Health and medicinal uses
Curry leaves have a long history in Ayurvedic medicine due to their various health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They help with hair health by preventing premature greying and promoting hair growth. They are also known for their anti-diabetic properties. They help in lowering blood sugar levels and improving digestive health.
Beauty and cosmetic uses
Curry leaf oil, extracted from the leaves, is used in hair care products. These products include shampoos, conditioners, and hair oils for promoting hair growth and preventing dandruff. The oil is also used in skin care for its anti-aging properties. It helps in reducing wrinkles and rejuvenating the skin.
Curry leaves are aromatic herb leaves that come from the curry leaf tree. They are commonly used in South Asian cuisine.
Rich in nutrients
Curry leaves are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients. They contain vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and other important antioxidants like carotenoids and alkaloids. They support overall health, skin health, and boost the immune system.
Supports digestive health
Have beneficial effects on the digestive system, curry leaves are commonly used to treat indigestion, diarrhea, and other digestive issues. Carvone and other compounds found in the leaves help stimulate digestion, promote the secretion of digestive enzymes, and improve nutrient absorption. This relieves symptoms like bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.
Helps manage diabetes
Curry leaves have been shown to help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin function. This makes them especially beneficial for people with diabetes. The leaves contain alkaloids like mahanimbine, which help in regulating blood sugar and improving the body’s response to insulin.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Curry leaves have anti-inflammatory properties. People commonly use them to reduce inflammation in the body and treat related conditions such as arthritis. These anti-inflammatory effects help alleviate joint pain and swelling. They also support overall joint health.
Rich in antioxidants
The antioxidants in curry leaves, such as carbazole alkaloids and flavonoids, help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This protects cells from oxidative stress. This helps in cell damage and aging. This also reduces the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Antioxidants also support skin health by combating signs of aging.
Supports hair health
Curry leaves are known to promote hair health by preventing premature greying, strengthening hair strands, and nourishing the scalp. People use a hair mask or oil combined with curry leaves in other ingredients. These include coconut oil, yogurt, or fenugreek seeds. Regular use of this mask or oil helps in keeping hair dark, shiny, and healthy.
Anti-microbial properties
Help fight against harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi, curry leaves can help boost the body’s immune defenses. They are used in traditional medicine to treat infections and illnesses. Their anti-microbial properties also support food preservation by preventing spoilage-causing microorganisms.
This is an important herb in Indian cuisine. Proper storage helps maintain the flavor, aroma, and freshness of curry leaves.
Storing fresh curry leaves
Fresh curry leaves should be stored in the refrigerator. Do this by placing them in a breathable storage bag or wrapping them in a slightly damp paper towel. This keeps them in a crisper drawer in the vegetable compartment. Store them at a temperature of 0°C to 4°C. This will keep them fresh for about 1 to 2 weeks.
Storing dried curry leaves
Dried curry leaves should be stored in an airtight container. The container should be kept in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Store them at room temperature in a pantry or cupboard. Properly dried and stored leaves can last 6 to 12 months. They’ll still retain flavor. However, they’ll last a shorter period if exposed to light or humidity.
Freezing curry leaves
Fresh curry leaves can be frozen to extend their shelf life. To freeze, remove the leaves from the stem and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer after an hour until the leaves are completely frozen. Transfer the frozen leaves into an airtight freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen curry leaves can last up to 6 months. They’ll still maintain their flavor and aroma but lose after 6 months.
Storing curry leaves in oil
Another way to preserve the freshness of curry leaves is by storing them in oil. This is ideal for people who want quick access to aromatic leaves for cooking. Add leaves to any cooking oil of choice then blend or crush the leaves to release the flavor. Strain out the solids and store the flavored oil in an airtight glass container. Keep the container in the refrigerator. The oil can last up to 2-3 months. It’ll last longer if it’s stored at a lower temperature.
Storing curry leaves in salt
Salt acts as a preservative and extends the shelf life of curry leaves. Mix fresh leaves with a generous amount of salt in a jar to layer the leaves and salt alternatively. The salt removes moisture and prevents mold. Store the jar in the refrigerator. This mixture can last up to 6 months while maintaining the leaves' flavor.
Curry leaves are aromatic, dark green, and glossy leaves. They are from the curry leaf tree, scientifically known as Murraya koenigii. They are used in cooking and traditional medicine. In cooking, they add flavor to dishes. They also have medicinal uses like improving digestion and regulating blood sugar. They belong to the sweet neem tree, which grows in hot and tropical climates. They are indigenous to India and other parts of Asia. They are also found in parts of Africa due to Indian diaspora.
The main difference between fresh and dried curry leaves is their flavor and aroma. Fresh curry leaves are bright green, fragrant, and intense. They are widely used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. Fresh leaves have a stronger, more vibrant, citrusy, and earthy flavor than dried ones. Dried curry leaves are milder in aroma and flavor. They are convenient for long-term storage but lose some of their potency. They are suitable for recipes with longer cooking times, where the flavor has enough time to infuse.
Fresh curry leaves have a shelf life of 1 to 2 weeks when properly stored in the refrigerator. Dried curry leaves can last 6 to 12 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Frozen curry leaves can last up to 6 months in the freezer while maintaining flavor and aroma. Fresh curry leaves preserved in oil or salt can last 2 to 3 months in the refrigerator.
Curry leaves are generally safe for most people when used as a culinary herb or for medicinal purposes. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions. Common symptoms include skin rashes, itching, or gastrointestinal discomfort like nausea or diarrhea. People suffering from diabetes should consult a healthcare professional before using curry leaves in large quantities. This is because they may lower blood sugar levels. People with known allergies to plants in the Rutaceae family should avoid curry leaves. Pregnant women should also consult a doctor before using curry leaves in medicinal amounts. This is because there is limited research on the effects of high doses of curry leaves during pregnancy.
