TIMES AUSTRALIA, JAKARTA – Imagine, in the morning, we are served by a simple meal. A set of Indonesian modest dishes like moringa soup, a bit of rice, fried tempeh, and sambal terasi or spicy fermented shrimp sauce.

However, we are not going to talk about the dish. This time it will be about themoringa soup. A simple, affordable for everyone, even sometimes free when you have the tree right in your yard, yet nutritious to meet a our daily nutritional needs.

The idea for this menu rose from the belief that nutritious food does not have to be expensive. Moringa leaves, for example, are a local plant that grows abundantly in yards.

The Health Properties

Many people may still think of moringa as just a hedge plant, but research shows it is incredibly rich in nutrients. The World Health Organization (WHO) even refers to moringa as a miracle tree because of its ability to fight malnutrition, especially in children and mothers.

Moringa soup, made from the leaves of Moringa oleifera, is a healthy dish that has gained attention for its impressive nutrient profile. The leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium.

According to Halodoc, moringa leaves contains three times more calcium than milk, seven times more vitamin C than oranges, and more iron than spinach, making it a superfood that is easy to process and suitable for daily consumption. These nutrients make moringa soup a powerful natural source of energy and immunity support.

Health experts, including those cited in Halodoc, highlight its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of moringa soup can help the body fight free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. This makes it an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

A Traditional Dish with Modern Appeal

Traditionally, moringa leaves have been used in many cultures as both food and medicine. When prepared as a soup, the leaves are boiled gently with simple spices to preserve their nutrients. The result is a light yet flavorful dish that is easy to digest and suitable for all ages.

Moringa soup is often recommended for people recovering from illness because of its restorative qualities. It also supports healthy digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. In modern times, it has become popular among health-conscious individuals seeking natural superfoods.

This menu idea of ​​clear moringa soup offers a new direction. It is not just about serving a meal, but also about introducing people to the richness of nutritious local foods. A serving of rice, moringa, eggs, tempeh, and bananas could be a simple example of how a small idea can have a big impact: fostering a healthy, intelligent, and independent society. (*)