What is Mukunuwenna?
Mukunuwenna is a leafy green vegetable that is commonly found in Sri Lanka and other parts of South Asia. The plant is scientifically known as Alternanthera sessilis and is a member of the Amaranthaceae family. Mukunuwenna, also called ponnanganni (Tamil), ponnaganti aaku (Telegu), honnagone (Kannada), sessile joyweed and dwarf copperleaf is a medicinal herb which is used in many asian countries. If you grew up in Sri Lanka, you will surely remember you mother making curries and mallum from this green. I distinctly remember my mother finding ways to trick me into eating mukuwenna dishes since it is highly nutritious, a diuretic and has cooling properties. As an adult, I have started treating food as medicine, and I am very thankful for this plant.
The leaves of the Mukunuwenna plant are thin and elongated, with a slightly serrated edge. They are typically a dark green color and can grow up to 5 cm in length. The plant itself can grow up to 50 cm in height and has small, white flowers that bloom in clusters.
It is one of the easiest plants that I have ever grown in my balcony garden. Since it behaves like a weed, you only have to stick a small piece into the soil, and it will grow, flower and spread rapidly. You need absolutely no gardening skills to grow this nutritious green, so yay!
Mukunuwenna is a popular ingredient in Sri Lankan cuisine and is often used in curries, soups, and stir-fries. It is known for its slightly bitter taste and is often paired with coconut milk to balance out the flavor. Mukunuwenna is prepared for meals in Sri Lanka in two main ways:
1) Cooking in coconut milk with veggies and some fish powder (umbalakada)
2) Eating raw by chopping finely and mixing with scraped coconut and other chopped veggies (Mallum)
Health Benefits of Mukunuwenn
1. Rich in Nutrients
Mukunuwenna is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. It contains high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and preventing diseases.
2. Boosts Immunity
Mukunuwenna is known for its immune-boosting properties. It contains antioxidants that help to protect the body against free radicals and other harmful substances. These antioxidants also help to strengthen the immune system, making it more effective at fighting off infections and diseases.
3. Promotes Digestive Health
Mukunuwenna is also known for its digestive health benefits. It contains high levels of fiber, which helps to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. It also contains enzymes that help to break down food and improve digestion.
4. Anti-inflammatory Properties
Mukunuwenna has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation in the body. This can help to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, asthma, and allergies.
5. Supports Cardiovascular Health
Mukunuwenna is also beneficial for cardiovascular health. It contains high levels of potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure and prevent heart disease. It also contains compounds that help to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, which can further reduce the risk of heart disease.
In summary, mukunuwenna is a highly nutritious vegetable that offers many health benefits. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, boosts immunity, promotes digestive health, has anti-inflammatory properties, and supports cardiovascular health.
Sri Lankan Mukunuwenna Curry
Ingredients
- 2 cups Mukunuwenna
- 1/2 Red onion
- 1/2 Jalapeno serrano, or thai chillies
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 1 Goraka small piece, optional
- 2 tbsp Coconut cream
- 1/2 cup Water
Seasoning
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric
Instructions
- Add all ingredients and seasoning to a pan
- Cook for 25 mins on low heat
Notes
- For an authentic sri lankan mukunuwenna curry, use thai / birds eye chillies, pearl onions, goraka, and 1 tsp of fish powder (umbalakada)