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An authentic and nutritious Odia stir-fry featuring tender moringa leaves (Sajana Saga) sautéed with pungent garlic, red chilies, and crunchy sun-dried lentil dumplings (badi). This simple, healthy side dish is a staple in Odia households and comes together in minutes.
Prepare the Moringa Leaves
Fry the Badi
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
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An authentic and nutritious Odia stir-fry featuring tender moringa leaves (Sajana Saga) sautéed with pungent garlic, red chilies, and crunchy sun-dried lentil dumplings (badi). This simple, healthy side dish is a staple in Odia households and comes together in minutes.
This odia recipe takes 25 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 144.67 calories per serving with 8.38g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for lunch or dinner or side.
Cook the Leaves
Combine and Serve
For a more complex flavor, add 1/2 tsp of Odia pancha phutana (five-spice blend) to the hot oil and let it crackle before adding the garlic and chilies.
Sauté 1 finely chopped small onion along with the garlic until it turns translucent before adding the leaves.
Add 1/2 cup of small-diced potatoes or brinjal to the pan after the tempering. Sauté until they are almost cooked, then add the moringa leaves.
For a coastal flavor, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of fresh grated coconut along with the crushed badi at the end.
Moringa leaves are exceptionally rich in essential vitamins like Vitamin A, C, and B-complex, and minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium, supporting overall health.
The high content of Vitamin C and other antioxidants in moringa leaves helps strengthen the immune system and protect the body against infections.
Moringa contains isothiocyanates, which are natural anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Loaded with calcium and phosphorus, moringa leaves are excellent for maintaining healthy and strong bones.
One serving (approximately 100g) of Sajana Saga Bhaja contains around 130 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the amount of oil and badi used.
Yes, it is extremely healthy. Moringa leaves (Sajana Saga) are a superfood, packed with vitamins A, C, and E, calcium, potassium, and protein. This dish is rich in antioxidants and fiber.
If you can't find badi, you can omit them. To replicate the crunch, you can add a tablespoon of roasted peanuts or fried moong dal papad, crushed and added at the end.
Yes, moringa leaves have a naturally mild bitter taste, which is a sign of their potent nutrients. The garlic and badi help balance it. Overcooking can sometimes intensify the bitterness.
Yes, you can. Thaw the frozen leaves completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding them to the pan. You may need to reduce the cooking time slightly.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The badi may lose its crispiness upon reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh.