Eat your leafy greens – we are sure all of us grew up hearing this piece of advice from our mothers and grandmothers (and continue to drill the same into our children!). And there are several good reasons why leafy greens should be part of our diets. Greens are:
- Rich in vitamins & minerals
- Excellent source of fibre
- Low calorie
- Immunity boosting
There are a wide variety of leafy greens available today. You can buy them at the vegetable market or buy organic green leafy vegetables online. Here’s a quick primer on a few popular ones:
Spinach: Also known as palak, this is among the most popular Indian greens. Dark green, with broad leaves and slightly bitter taste, this is used extensively in Indian dishes – from palak paneer to palak dal and even chapathis. Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients: a rich source of vitamin K, C and D, dietary fibre, iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium and is loaded with several health benefits. Popeye loved his spinach and we are sure you do too!
Fenugreek: Also known as methi, they have a distinctive sharp aroma and appearance – small light green leaves. Methi is once again popularly used across various dishes in Indian cuisine. While methi seeds are renowned for their health benefits, the leaves aren’t too far behind – they are rich in antioxidants and a whole host of minerals and vitamins.
Amaranthus: Available in red and green varieties, amaranthus leaves are used in dals and stir fries. Low in calories, amaranthus leaves are high in fibre, B Vitamins and potassium.
Moringa leaves: Known as drumstick leaves, moringa leaves are among the most nutritious greens. The leaves of this extremely hardy plant are filled with vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals.
Basale Soppu: Known as Malabar Spinach, basale soppu is identified by its flat green veined leaves and thickish stems. They are popularly used in sambar in South India and are a rich source of Vitamin A & C.
Kale: One of the top runners for the healthiest foods on the planet. The slightly bitter taste should not deter you from the mountain of nutritional benefits of this leafy green with frilled edges. It is rich in vitamins A, D, and K, minerals like calcium and magnesium, and lutein and beta-carotene – key antioxidants. What is a smoothie without kale?
Mustard greens: Sarson ka saag with makki roti is a staple in North India especially during the summers. Slightly bitter in tastes, mustard leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, E and K. they are also a good source of calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, manganese and dietary fibre.
Mint: Also known as pudina, mint leaves delight with their minty flavour as well as sharp aroma. Mint leaves are commonly used to make chutneys and used as flavourings in a variety of dishes and as a breath freshener. How many of us have popped leaves in a jug of water that we sip from throughout the day? Mint leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals and help boost immunity.
Curry leaves & Coriander: A staple in Indian households, curry leaves are used in tempering as well as to make chutneys. Coriander is easily among the most popular garnishes. While curry leaves are great for digestive health, coriander leaves are rich in Vitamin K.
And we have all the organic greens you need for a healthy, nutritious diet at Happy Harvest Farms. All our organic greens are growing using strict organic farming principles. Only non-GMO seeds are used. No chemical pesticides or chemical fertilisers are used as per organic farming practices. Our greens are handpicked when just ripe. No post-harvest chemical treatments are used. From farm to table – 100% organic, freshly harvested organic greens, just for you!
Wondering where you can buy organic green leafy vegetables online? Buy fresh, organic, greens and fresh vegetables in Bengaluru on Happy Harvest Farms now!