DRUMSTICK LEAVES STIRFRY
2 TO 3
servings20
minutes20
minutesDrumstick leaves stir-fry, also known as Murungai Keerai Poriyal in South India, is a simple yet highly nutritious dish made using the tender leaves of the drumstick tree (Moringa oleifera). Celebrated for their exceptional health benefits, drumstick leaves are a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This stir-fry is a traditional recipe found in many Indian households, particularly in Tamil, Telugu, and Kerala cuisines, where it's often served alongside rice and sambar or rasam. Lightly spiced and sautéed with ingredients like mustard seeds, garlic, onions, and grated coconut, this dish not only enhances daily nutrition but also brings a unique earthy flavor to the plate. It's a perfect example of how humble ingredients can be transformed into a wholesome and delicious meal.
Ingredients
2 cups of cleaned drumstick leaves (stems removed)
1 cup of chopped shallots
1/2 cup of freshly grated coconut
1 green chili
1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder
1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 or 2 tablespoon of cooking oil
2 to 3 tablespoons of water
The required amount of salt
1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
Directions
Over a medium temperature heat oil in a thick - bottomed pan
Add the mustard seeds and let them pop
When they stop popping add the shallot pieces
Sauté until soft
Add the drumstick leaves, stir and fry until they are soft ( approximately 7 to 8 minutes)
Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water in between and cook
Coarsely grind the coconut, cumin seeds, green chili and the turmeric powder
Add into the drumstick leaves mixture
Give it a good stir
Add the required amount of salt and mix
Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on a low flame stirring in between
Switch off the stove and serve
NOTES
- While cooking the drumstick leaves add water little by little
- Make sure the leaves are cleaned well before cooking
- Remove the stem from the leaves











