Bele Wraps with Spiced Filling
Tender bele leaves (similar to spinach) are blanched and then wrapped around a flavorful filling of roasted nuts, diced coconut, and spices. These wraps are often served with a tangy dressing.
🧂 Ingredients
- 12 large Bele leaves(stems trimmed)
- 1/2 cup Roasted nuts (like ivi or cashews)(finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup Mature brown coconut (vara)(diced)
- 6 sprigs Curry leaves
- 2 tbsp Coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1 juice of Lemon
- 2 tbsp Coriander(freshly chopped)
- 1/2 cup Watercress(for filling)
- 1/2 tsp Chilli flakes(for dressing)
- 1/4 cup Sour sop or passionfruit(pureed, for dressing)
- 1 tsp Honey(for dressing)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Blanch the bele leaves by plunging them into boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer to ice water. Drain well.
💡 Tip: Blanching makes the leaves pliable for wrapping. - 2
In a pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped roasted nuts, diced vara, curry leaves, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped coriander and watercress. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- 4
Lay two blanched bele leaves flat, overlapping slightly. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center of the leaves.
💡 Tip: Ensure the filling is not too bulky to allow for neat wrapping. - 5
Fold the sides of the bele leaves over the filling, then roll them up tightly to form a wrap. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
💡 Tip: If leaves are small, use 3 leaves per wrap. - 6
To make the dressing, combine the pureed sour sop or passionfruit, lemon juice, honey, and chilli flakes in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined.
💡 Tip: Adjust sweetness and spice to your preference. - 7
Arrange the bele wraps on a serving platter. Drizzle the dressing over the wraps just before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If bele leaves are unavailable, large spinach or Swiss chard leaves can be used as a substitute.
- ✓Ensure the nuts are well-roasted for maximum flavor.
- ✓These wraps can be served as an appetizer or a light side dish.
🔄 Variations
- Add some finely diced cooked fish or chicken to the filling for a more substantial wrap.
- Experiment with different spices like grated ginger or garlic in the filling.