Aloe Vera Curry
A Unique Sri Lankan Delight

Aloe vera is typically known for its healing properties, especially when it comes to skin ailments and digestive health. However, in Sri Lankan cuisine, it holds a special place as an ingredient in savory dishes, one of which is Aloe Vera Curry. This unique and wholesome curry showcases the versatility of aloe vera, transforming it into a flavorful dish that complements any Sri Lankan meal.

In this article, we will delve into how to prepare a delicious Aloe Vera Curry, its health benefits, and why it’s worth incorporating this dish into your culinary repertoire.

Health Benefits of Aloe Vera

Before we jump into the recipe, it’s essential to highlight the incredible health benefits of aloe vera, making it more than just an ingredient for skincare:

Rich in Nutrients: Aloe vera is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and B12, along with minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and zinc.
Boosts Digestive Health: Aloe vera helps soothe the digestive system and can aid in reducing symptoms of indigestion or acid reflux.
Supports Immune Health: Aloe vera contains powerful antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory components in aloe vera can assist in reducing inflammation both internally and externally.

When used in cooking, these benefits make aloe vera an ingredient that not only adds a unique flavor but also promotes health and wellness.

Preparing Aloe Vera for Cooking

Aloe vera contains a gel-like substance within its leaves that is often used for skincare and healing purposes. However, to use it in cooking, the preparation is crucial. Follow these steps before making the curry:

Select Fresh Aloe Vera Leaves: Choose thick, firm, and fresh leaves.
Remove the Skin: Using a sharp knife, carefully peel off the outer green skin of the aloe leaf. You will be left with a clear, jelly-like flesh.
Cut into Cubes: Cut the jelly-like flesh into small, bite-sized cubes.
Soak in Salt Water: Aloe vera can have a slight bitterness. To reduce this, soak the cubes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water before cooking.

Now that the aloe vera is prepared, let’s move on to the recipe.

Aloe Vera Curry Recipe

Ingredients:

2 medium-sized aloe vera leaves, peeled and cut into cubes
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, finely grated
1 small green chili, sliced (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 tsp curry powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 small tomato, chopped
1 cup coconut milk
1 tbsp oil (coconut oil preferred for authentic Sri Lankan flavor)
A few curry leaves
Salt to taste
Juice of half a lime

Instructions:

Prepare the Aloe Vera: After soaking the aloe vera cubes in salted water and rinsing them, set them aside.
Heat the Oil: In a medium-sized pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
Add Spices: Once the onions are golden, add the turmeric powder, chili powder, curry powder, and coriander powder. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, letting them cook for about a minute to release their flavors.
Tomatoes and Aloe Vera: Add the chopped tomato to the pan and cook until it softens. Then, add the prepared aloe vera cubes, stirring gently to coat them with the spice mixture.
Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and mix well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the aloe vera to absorb the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent the curry from sticking to the pan.
Final Touch: Add salt to taste and squeeze the lime juice over the curry to balance the flavors. Let the curry simmer for another 2-3 minutes before removing it from the heat.
Serve: Garnish with fresh curry leaves and serve the aloe vera curry with steamed rice, roti, or bread. Aloe vera curry pairs beautifully with other Sri Lankan side dishes such as dhal curry, pol sambol (coconut sambol), or papadam.

Tips for Making Aloe Vera Curry

Adjust Spice Levels: Aloe vera has a mild, neutral taste, so you can adjust the spice levels in this curry based on your preference. Adding more chili powder or green chili can give it a spicy kick, while reducing the spices will make it milder.
Don’t Overcook the Aloe Vera: Overcooking aloe vera can make it mushy and lose its texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure that the aloe cubes remain firm yet tender.
Use Fresh Coconut Milk: For an authentic Sri Lankan taste, use fresh coconut milk. The richness of coconut milk enhances the flavor of the curry and complements the mild aloe vera perfectly.

Why Try Aloe Vera Curry?

Aloe Vera Curry is not just a novelty dish but a representation of the diverse and resourceful nature of Sri Lankan cuisine. By turning a common medicinal plant into a flavorful dish, Sri Lankans demonstrate how ingredients from nature can serve multiple purposes. Incorporating this dish into your diet adds variety to your meals and offers numerous health benefits.

Whether you're a fan of trying new, exotic flavors or looking for a wholesome meal that promotes well-being, Aloe Vera Curry is worth a try. It’s simple to make, nutritious, and brings a unique element to your dining table.

Conclusion

Sri Lankan Aloe Vera Curry is a healthy and flavorful addition to your culinary experiences. Its combination of aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and the subtle taste of aloe vera creates a delightful dish. The next time you’re looking to add something new to your meal, give Aloe Vera Curry a try—it’s a perfect example of how Sri Lankan cuisine transforms natural ingredients into something extraordinary.