27 DRUMSTICK LEAVES PORIYAL (STIR FRY)

Drumstick leaves/ Moringa ila / Muringai ilai/ Nugge Soppu / Munakkaakku / sahjan


Drumstick leaves are highly nutritious, being a significant source Vitamin C, protien, Iron and Potassium. This leaves are bitter in taste, but they are very nutritious. Can be made as a stir fry or can also be added in dhals, adai/rotti and other dishes. Cleaning and removing the leaves is a tedious job, but once done the it can be cooked very easily.

Usually these leaves are sold in bunches and the perfect way to remove the leaves is to tie them in a wet cloth and leave it aside for few hours. Later just shake the bunch so that some extra leaves fall out inside, now open and remove the remaining by plucking.
Wash and clean the leaves, no need to chop the leaves.


Drumstick leaves - 1 bunch
Shallots - around 8(roughly chopped) or 1 medium red onion - chopped
Chillies - 4 ( can use red or green)
Mustard seeds - very little
Urad dhal - very little
Curry leaves - 1 sprig
Salt as needed
Oil - 1 - 2 tbsp
Grated coconut - 3 - 4 tbsp


Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, urad dhal and curry leaves. Wait till they pop out and add chopped onions and chillies. Fry till nice brown. Next add drumstick leaves. Reduce flame and keep stirring now and then till they are cooked. Can also cover with a lid and keep checking now and then. Add salt in between and finally add grated coconut and give a stir. Enjoy it as a side dish with rice and some gravy.