On the Tamarind Trail
On the Tamarind Trail
The idea behind these imli recipes was because it is loved by everyone. Imli can be used in a chutney, a sambar, several dishes.... But what is lesser known is that it is a staple of the nomads, the Adivasi community. Wherever I have travelled to nomadic regions, in South India, MP, Rajasthan, AP, I have seen it used in a variety of ways. Here, I have incorporated it in a tikki, in aloo as a starter, a panna as a soothing drink. The goodness of imli is vast, but must be had in limited quantity.
Imli helps reduce tension and the drink works to alleviate kidney stones. Its nutritive source is high. Adivasis soak the seeds and make a powder of it and add it to flour to make rotis. You can eat 1 tbsp halwa made from imli seeds every day for fortification. The halwa is also effective in helping those who suffer from headaches. It is great for a good night’s sleep, too. The tea made from imli leaves is helpful in weight loss, it is made very light, without sugar, by boiling the leaves for a while.
Imli intake must be carried out by consulting with your doctor for its medicinal benefits.
Photographs: Vaishali Rajput