Upperi/Thoran is a Kerala speciality which you can find in every Kerala house. We have an endless list of upperi's which is eaten with boiled rice. To name a few are Cheera (red/ green) Upperi, Long Beans Upperi, Long Gourd Upperi, Lady's finger Upperi, Cabbage Upperi, Beetroot Upperi, Ulli thandu Upperi, Vazhakkai (Raw Banana) Upperi, Thalolinga upperi...it goes on and on..
Cheera/Spinach like other dark green veggies, is an excellent source of beta-carotene, a powerful disease-fighting antioxidant. It is rich in vitamins C & E. You should be careful not to overcook it as it may lose its vitamins.
INGREDIENTS
Spinach - 200 gm
Coconut- 1/2 cup
Chilly - 2 slit into half
Shallots- 3 chopped fine( or onion 1 medium)
Curry Leaves - 2 stalks
Chilly powder - 1/4 teaspoon
Coconut oil - 2 teaspoon
Mustard - 1 teaspoon
Salt - As required
METHOD
Wash and drain spinach
Chop it fine.
Add salt, Chilly, Shallots/onions, chilly powder and mix well with hands for 2 minutes.
Heat oil in a kadai.
Add mustard and let it splutter. Add curry leaves.
Add the mixed Cheera/Spinach. Add a little less salt as it may become more once cooked. You can check and add more salt if required later.
Add the coconut.
Add the coconut.
Cover and cook till done. Do not overcook.
Serve hot with rice and curry.
Serve hot with rice and curry.
