the auspicious day of Vaikoonth (Paradise) Ekadashi (11th day) is regarded as an open house day into heaven as per Hindu beliefs, Those fortunate enough to leave behind the mortal world on this day are regarded as being freed from the cycle of birth & rebirth and be one with the almighty. This is a day of fasting & prayer and one of the ingredients used in food prepared to break the fast are the leaves of the humming bird tree (Sesbania grandiflora), known as ' Agathi' greens. The leaves have a slight leathery texture and are stir fried in a traditional tempering of Mustard & Urad. Given that its all but impossible to get these in the US of A, Kale (the Tuscan variety) makes for the perfect substitute in terms of the texture. (Its been soo long since I've had the original agathi stirfry, that I barely remember how it tastes, except that the texture was a real treat!)

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