Pathila curry, a beloved dish from Kerala’s traditional cuisine, is much more than a simple curry. Prepared using tender leaves from medicinal plants, this dish epitomizes the Ayurvedic principle of seasonal eating. Typically made during the monsoon season, Pathila curry is both a culinary delight and a remedy to boost immunity and wellness when the body is most vulnerable to infections.

The Significance of “Pathila”

The term “Pathila” translates to “10 leaves,” referring to the mix of ten different types of leaves used to prepare this curry. These leaves are chosen for their medicinal properties, nutritional value, and availability during the rainy season. Each leaf contributes unique health benefits, creating a dish that is both wholesome and therapeutic. The pathila or ten leaves are:

1. Thazhuthama (spreading hogweed)
2. Chembila (leaves of Colocasia)
3. Cheera (spinach)
4. Vellari ila (leaves of Kerala cucumber)
5. Thakara (oval shaped cassia)
6. Payarila (cowpea leaves)
7. Chena ila (elephant yam leaves)
8. Kumbalam ila (ash guard leaves)
9. Mathan ila (pumpkin leaves)
10. Velicheera (Chekurmanis leaves)

There can be minor variations in the above list (one or two items) in different parts of Kerala. But the above one is the most standard. If you don’t have one or two above leaves, don’t worry, you can replace them with leaves of similar nutritious vegetables.

Ingredients and Preparation of Pathila Curry

Key Ingredients

• 10 leaves (Pathila)
• Grated coconut: 1 cup
• Green chilies: 2-3
• Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
• Shallots: 5-6
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Coconut oil: 1 tablespoon
• Mustard seeds: ½ teaspoon
• Curry leaves: A few sprigs
• Salt: To taste

Preparation Steps

1. Clean the leaves: Wash all the tender leaves thoroughly and chop them finely.
2. Cook the leaves: Place the chopped leaves in a pot, add turmeric powder, salt, and a small amount of water. Cook until the leaves are tender.
3. Make the coconut paste: Grind grated coconut, green chilies, cumin seeds, and shallots into a smooth paste.
4. Combine the ingredients: Add the coconut paste to the cooked leaves. Mix well and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
5. Prepare the tempering: Heat coconut oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and curry leaves. Once they splutter, pour the tempering over the curry.
6. Add tamarind: Stir in the tamarind pulp and adjust the seasoning. Let it simmer for a few minutes before serving.

Health Benefits of Pathila Curry

1. Rich in Nutrients: The diverse mix of medicinal leaves provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for overall health.
2. Boosts Immunity: These medicinal leaves enhance the body’s natural defence against seasonal illnesses.
3. Aids Digestion: Most ingredients of Pathila curry improves digestion and soothes the stomach.
4. Detoxifies the Body: The dish’s ingredients help flush out toxins, promoting a natural detoxification process. By the way, Smoothie Diet is a superb option for detoxifying your body.
5. Balances Doshas: According to Ayurveda, Pathila curry helps maintain harmony among the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas*.

*In Ayurveda tradition, there are three humors or doshas in people. It is very important to balance them for optimal physiological, mental, and emotional health. These doshas are vata, kapha, and pitta.

Cultural Relevance and Modern Appeal

Pathila Curry is a testament to Kerala’s rich ayurvedic heritage and the symbiotic relationship between food and medicine in traditional practices. While its preparation was once limited to rural households, this dish has gained popularity in modern kitchens and Ayurvedic wellness centers, thanks to its nutritional profile and medicinal value.

In today’s world, where health-conscious eating is on the rise, Pathila curry serves as a perfect example of how traditional recipes can meet modern dietary needs. The dish is often paired with rice, making it a balanced meal that satisfies both the palate and the body’s nutritional requirements.

Conclusion

Pathila curry is more than just a dish; it is a celebration of nature’s bounty and Kerala’s culinary wisdom. Its blend of flavors and health benefits makes it an ideal addition to your monsoon diet. By incorporating Pathila curry into your meals, you not only honor traditional practices but also fortify your body against seasonal ailments. Embrace the goodness of this Ayurvedic treasure and relish the taste of Kerala’s monsoon healer.