Did you know that chili pepper leaves are edible and offer a plethora of health benefits? Chili leaves are especially rich in calcium; 100 grams of these leaves provide approximately 233 mg of calcium, while 100 ml of milk provides only about 120 mg. In addition, these leaves contain essential nutrients such as fiber, carotene, and vitamin C. Research indicates that chili leaves aid digestion and stimulate the secretion of digestive juices, enhancing one’s appetite.
Chili leaves are also packed with antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and protect the body’s cells. The abundant vitamin A in these leaves benefits vision health, slows down eye aging, and prevents eye-related diseases. According to traditional Chinese medicine, chili leaves have a bitter taste, a cooling nature, and possess diuretic, detoxifying, and heat-clearing properties. They are believed to be beneficial for the liver and lungs.
Health Benefits of Chili Leaves
In addition to being a great source of calcium, chili leaves offer a range of other health advantages.
- Cholesterol Reduction
Chili leaves are high in fiber and low in fat and calories, making them an effective food for lowering bad cholesterol levels in the body.
- Diabetes Management
Phytochemicals present in chili leaves promote insulin production in the body. Insulin deficiency is one of the primary causes of diabetes, and dishes incorporating chili leaves can support the management of this condition. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional and follow their advice during treatment.
- Improved Digestion
Chili leaves are effective in addressing digestive issues due to their high fiber content, which also helps inhibit the activity of harmful bacteria in the digestive tract. Consuming chili leaves can alleviate indigestion and bloating. Try boiling a handful of fresh chili leaves and drinking the water after a meal; you’ll feel lighter and experience improved digestion.
Chili leaves are particularly lush, tender, and vibrant during the summer. This is the perfect time to harvest and incorporate them into your culinary creations.
Preparing chili leaves is simple; they can be cooked into a soup or stir-fried like any other green vegetable.
Delicious Dishes Using Chili Leaves
- Chili Leaf and Shrimp Soup
Ingredients: Fresh chili leaves, fresh shrimp, basic seasoning, scallions, and fresh chili peppers.
Pluck the tender stems and young leaves, discarding any old or damaged ones, and give them a good wash. You can chop the leaves finely to enhance their flavor.
Peel and devein the shrimp, rinsing them thoroughly. Lightly pound the shrimp with a knife to release their sweetness. Marinate the shrimp with a little seasoning.
In a pan, sauté the heads and shells in a little oil or fat until fragrant, then add the shrimp and stir-fry briefly. Once the shrimp turn opaque, remove them from the pan and set them aside. Add water to the pan.
When the water boils, add the chili leaves and adjust the seasoning to taste. As the water returns to a boil, add the shrimp. Feel free to include fresh chili peppers if you prefer it spicier.
Turn off the heat when the chili leaves are cooked, and serve the soup in bowls.
Chili leaves have a mild pungency without the heat of the chili pepper.
- Stir-fried Chili Leaves with Garlic
This dish is incredibly simple and only requires garlic, oil or fat, chili leaves, and seasoning.
Wash the chili leaves and drain them well. Crush and finely chop the garlic.
Heat oil or fat in a pan and add the chopped garlic, frying until fragrant. Toss in the chili leaves and stir-fry over high heat, seasoning to taste. Serve the stir-fried leaves hot, straight from the pan.
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