Healthy Fenugreek Leaf Pathrode

Healthy Fenugreek Leaf Patrode is a traditional Karnataka steamed delicacy made with fresh fenugreek leaves, rice, coconut, and aromatic spices. Wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection, this nutritious dish has the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and mildly sweet flavors. It is best enjoyed with a drizzle of ghee, butter, or coconut oil.

Ingredients

For the Batter

• 2 cup dosa rice
• ½ cup white boiled rice (parboiled rice)
• 1 cup fresh grated coconut
• 3 tablespoons coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
• A small piece of tamarind
• A small piece of jaggery
• 6–8 dried red chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Water, as required

For the Filling

• 3 bunches fresh fenugreek leaves (methi leaves), cleaned and finely chopped
• 4 small onions, finely chopped

For Wrapping

• Banana leaves, cut into medium-sized pieces

For Serving

• Ghee, butter, or coconut oil (optional)

Preparation Method

Prepare the Batter

1. Wash the dosa rice and boiled rice thoroughly.
2. Soak both varieties of rice overnight (8–10 hours).
3. Drain the water and transfer the soaked rice to a mixer.
4. Add the grated coconut, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, tamarind, jaggery, dried red chilies, chopped onion, and salt.
5. Grind into a slightly thick, smooth batter by adding water as needed.

Prepare the Pathrode Mixture

1. Transfer the batter to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the finely chopped fenugreek leaves and chopped onions.
3. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Wrap and Steam

1. Wash and lightly wilt the banana leaves over a flame if needed to make them flexible.
2. Place a handful of the prepared batter onto each banana leaf.
3. Fold and wrap the leaf securely.
4. Arrange the wrapped kadubus in a steamer or idli cooker.
5. Steam for 25–30 minutes or until fully cooked.
6. Remove the banana leaves before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh and tender fenugreek leaves for the best flavor.
• Keep the batter slightly thick so it spreads well on the banana leaves.
• Lightly heat the banana leaves over a flame to prevent them from tearing while folding.
• Balance the jaggery, tamarind, and chilies for the perfect sweet, tangy, and spicy taste.
• Enjoy the kadubu with a drizzle of ghee, butter, or coconut oil. Since the batter is already well-seasoned, chutney or sambar is usually not required.

Nutrition (Approx. Per 1 piece)

• Calories – 165 kcal
• Carbohydrates – 28 g
• Protein – 4 g
• Fat – 4 g
• Fiber – 4 g
• Sodium – 180 mg