The viral recipe of a little girl named Issa Sahrin has recently become a heartwarming topic of discussion among teachers, parents, and food lovers across Kerala. While most second-grade students dream of fast food like burgers and doughnuts, seven-year-old Issa used her school exam to share something much more meaningful: a traditional, home-cooked recipe that has now captured the internet’s attention.
The Viral Recipe of a Little Girl – A Different Path in the Exam Hall
During the recent Christmas examinations at Thiruvangoor Higher Secondary School, Kerala, Class II students were given a simple task: write about their favourite recipe. For many seven-year-olds, the answers followed familiar, modern lines—sandwiches, burgers, and sweets.
However, Issa Sahrin of Class II B chose a different path. Rather than opting for trendy snacks, she wrote about a traditional dish close to her heart: Moringa leaf curry (drumstick leaf curry). This viral recipe of a little girl stood out not just for the choice of dish, but for the incredible detail she used to describe the cooking process.
Why Teachers Are Talking About It?
Issa’s answer sheet quickly caught the attention of teachers during a block-level meeting at Koyilandy. It was presented as a shining example of originality and observation. Educators were impressed that a seven-year-old could explain a traditional cooking method with such precision.
Those who read her exam paper said her description was so vivid it made their mouths water. Her words were so tempting that many teachers felt like heading straight home to try the recipe themselves!
Meet the Young Chef Behind the Recipe
Issa is the second of three children of Sajir Ali and his wife, Jesla, who works as a nurse at Meitra Hospital. The family lives at Hayat House in Kolakkad, Puthukkad.
When the news of her “famous” exam answer reached home, her mother was surprised. She asked Issa if she actually knew how to cook the dish she described. Issa’s confident reply was:
“Yes, Umma. I know how to make tea, lemonade, and omelette.”
Issa developed her culinary skills by being a curious observer in the kitchen. She learned by watching her mother cook and received extra guidance from her elder sister, Nasna Yusna, who is a Class VI student.
The Viral Recipe: Drumstick Leaf Curry by Issa Sahrin
This viral recipe of a little girl is a perfect example of healthy, traditional Kerala cooking. Here is how Issa described her favourite dish in her exam:
Ingredients List
- Drumstick leaves: Freshly cleaned and separated from the stems.
- Jackfruit seeds: A traditional addition for texture and nutrition.
- Spices: Salt, turmeric powder, and chilli powder.
- Coconut Paste: Freshly grated coconut ground into a smooth paste.
- Oil: Used for the final tempering.
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Greens: Wash the drumstick leaves thoroughly and separate them carefully to ensure they are clean.
- Cook the Seeds: Clean the jackfruit seeds and boil them in a small amount of water until they are tender.
- Season the Dish: Add salt, turmeric powder, and chilli powder to the seeds and mix well.
- Add Flavour: Stir in the freshly ground coconut paste to give the curry its rich, traditional taste.
- The Main Ingredient: Add the drumstick leaves and cook them just until they are done (this preserves the nutrients).
- The Final Touch: Prepare a separate tempering in oil and pour it over the curry for a beautiful aroma.
Your healthy drumstick leaf curry is ready to serve!
A Lesson for Every Student
We have included this story in our Students’ Corner because Issa Sahrin teaches us a very important lesson: Originality matters. In a world where we are surrounded by global trends, Issa looked at her own home and her own culture for inspiration. She showed that children are great observers and that traditional knowledge is just as valuable as what we find in textbooks.
The viral recipe of a little girl is more than just a cooking guide; it is a reminder to stay curious, stay observant, and always stay true to your roots.
Conclusion
The story of the viral recipe of a little girl is about much more than just a delicious drumstick leaf curry. It is a powerful reminder that education is not confined to the pages of a textbook. Issa Sahrin showed us that when children are encouraged to observe the world around them—whether in the classroom or the kitchen—they develop a sense of originality and confidence that stays with them for life.
By choosing a traditional dish over modern fast-food trends, Issa reminded her teachers and her community of the beauty in our roots. Her ability to describe the cooking process so vividly proves that children are constantly learning from their families and their environment.
As we feature this in our Students Corner, let it serve as an inspiration to every student to stay curious and every parent to keep sharing those small, everyday lessons. Sometimes, the most “viral” thing a child can do is simply be themselves and share a piece of their home with the world.
What do you think of Issa’s choice? Do you have a favourite traditional recipe that you loved as a child? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Story Source: Onmanorama

Mathukutty P V is a Blogger, YouTuber, and Content Writer who transitioned into a “Free Lifestyle” after choosing voluntary retirement in 2017. He is the founder of Simply Life Tips, a mission-driven platform dedicated to inspiring others through practical wisdom and life lessons. Driven by a love for continuous learning and self-growth, Mathukutty shares knowledge gathered from years of reflection to help his readers live with more purpose and positivity.




