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A delightful Assamese stir-fry featuring tender fiddlehead ferns (dhekia xaak) and scrambled eggs. This simple, rustic dish is packed with unique flavor and comes together quickly for a wholesome meal, typically enjoyed with steamed rice.
Prepare the Ferns and Aromatics
Sauté Aromatics
Cook the Dhekia Xaak
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A delightful Assamese stir-fry featuring tender fiddlehead ferns (dhekia xaak) and scrambled eggs. This simple, rustic dish is packed with unique flavor and comes together quickly for a wholesome meal, typically enjoyed with steamed rice.
This indian recipe takes 30 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 241.18 calories per serving with 13.28g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
Incorporate the Eggs
Serve
Omit the eggs entirely for a simple and delicious vegan 'Dhekia Xaak Bhaji'. You can add 1 small, diced potato along with the onions for more substance.
For a different flavor profile, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of panch phoron (Bengali five-spice blend) to the hot oil before adding the onions.
Add half a finely chopped tomato along with the onions for a slight tangy flavor in the bhaji.
Fiddlehead ferns are packed with antioxidants, including vitamin C and various phenolic compounds, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
The addition of eggs makes this dish a great source of complete protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
High in Vitamin A, fiddlehead ferns contribute to maintaining healthy vision, supporting the function of the retina, and preventing age-related eye issues.
The combination of Vitamin A and Vitamin C in dhekia xaak plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system and helping the body fight off infections.
Dhekia Xaak is the Assamese name for fiddlehead ferns, which are the coiled fronds of a young fern. They have a unique, earthy flavor often compared to a mix of asparagus, green beans, and okra.
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. Fiddlehead ferns are a great source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. The eggs provide high-quality protein, making it a balanced and nutritious meal.
One serving of Dhekia Xaak with Egg Bhaji contains approximately 220-240 calories, making it a light yet satisfying dish. The exact count can vary based on the amount of oil used.
Fiddlehead ferns are a seasonal delicacy, typically available in spring and early summer. You can find them at local farmers' markets in regions where they grow, or at specialty Asian grocery stores.
While the unique taste of dhekia xaak is hard to replicate, you can make a similar bhaji with French beans, asparagus, or long beans. The cooking time may need to be adjusted.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until hot before serving.