Turkey Berries / Thibbatu – Fresh ( Moms’s Garden )

Description

Turkey Berries, known in Sri Lanka as “Thibbatu” (තිබ්බටු), are small green fruits from the Solanum torvum plant. Though small in size, they are a powerful traditional food and herbal remedy in Sri Lankan and Ayurvedic medicine.

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🍃 Health Benefits of Turkey Berries (Thibbatu)

1. 🩸 Boosts Iron Levels & Fights Anemia

• Rich in iron, helps improve red blood cell production.

• Often used as a natural remedy for anemia—especially useful for women and growing children.

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2. 🍽️ Improves Digestion

• Stimulates appetite and promotes secretion of digestive enzymes.

• Reduces bloating, constipation, and indigestion.

• Acts as a mild laxative.

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3. 🛡️ Strengthens the Immune System

• Contains antioxidants, flavonoids, and vitamin C.

• Helps the body fight off infections, colds, and flu.

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4. 🩺 Supports Blood Sugar Control

• Traditionally used to manage diabetes in herbal medicine.

• May help reduce insulin resistance and regulate blood sugar levels.

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5. ❤️ Promotes Heart Health

• Helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL).

• May lower the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems.

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6. 🧫 Antibacterial & Anti-inflammatory Properties

• Contains natural compounds that fight bacteria and reduce inflammation.

• Supports treatment of urinary tract infections, wounds, and skin infections.

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7. 🌿 Supports Liver and Kidney Health

• Acts as a natural detoxifier for the liver.

• Helps flush out toxins and supports kidney function.

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8. 🦴 Strengthens Bones

• Good source of calcium, iron, and phosphorus, supporting bone strength and development.

• Beneficial for children and elderly people.

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🍲 Sri Lankan Thibbatu Curry Recipe (Turkey Berry Curry)

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 cup Thibbatu (Turkey Berries) – washed and slightly crushed

• 1 small onion, sliced

• 2–3 cloves garlic, chopped

• 1 sprig curry leaves

• 1 small piece of cinnamon

• 1–2 green chilies (optional)

• ½ tsp mustard seeds

• ½ tsp fenugreek seeds (optional)

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp cumin powder (optional)

• 1 cup thin coconut milk

• ½ cup thick coconut milk

• 1 tbsp coconut oil

• Salt to taste

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:

✅ Step 1: Prepare the Thibbatu

• Wash and lightly crush each turkey berry with the back of a spoon (this helps release bitterness and allows flavor to enter).

• Soak in salted water for 10 minutes and drain (optional but helps reduce bitterness).

✅ Step 2: Temper the Spices

1. Heat coconut oil in a clay pot or pan.

2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

3. Add curry leaves, cinnamon, garlic, onions, green chilies, and fenugreek seeds.

4. Sauté until onions turn golden and fragrant.

✅ Step 3: Add the Spices & Thibbatu

1. Add turmeric, chili, coriander, and cumin powder.

2. Stir the spices gently for 30 seconds.

3. Add the prepared Thibbatu and mix well to coat with the spices.

✅ Step 4: Simmer

1. Pour in thin coconut milk.

2. Add salt to taste.

3. Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes on medium heat until Thibbatu softens and absorbs flavor.

✅ Step 5: Finish with Thick Coconut Milk

1. Add thick coconut milk.

2. Cook for another 5 minutes on low flame until the curry thickens slightly.

3. Adjust seasoning.

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🍛 Serve With:

• Warm rice

• Pittu or pol roti

• A side of gotukola sambol or parippu (dhal)

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🌿 Optional Variation: Thibbatu Mallung (Stir-Fry)

• Boil or steam crushed turkey berries until soft.

• Lightly fry with onions, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and scraped coconut.

• Add a pinch of turmeric and salt.

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