Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful addition to your Indian cooking repertoire? Look no further! Drumstick leaves, also known as Moringa leaves, are a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Often overlooked, these leaves offer a unique, slightly bitter yet subtly sweet flavor that adds depth and complexity to many dishes. This recipe will guide you through preparing a simple yet incredibly delicious Indian drumstick leaves curry, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to explore the wonderful world of homemade cooking with this easy recipe!
Ingredients for Drumstick Leaves Curry
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed.
- 1 large bunch of fresh drumstick leaves, thoroughly washed and roughly chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1-inch ginger, finely grated
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp urad dal (split black lentils)
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing) – optional, adds a unique aroma
- 2 tbsp cooking oil (coconut oil recommended for authentic flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for added tang)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Easy Indian Drumstick Leaves Curry
This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Let’s get cooking!
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the oil in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add the urad dal and asafoetida (if using) and sauté for a minute until the dal turns light golden.
- Add the spices: Now, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly golden. Add the ginger and green chilies, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Bloom the spices: Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and red chili powder. Sauté for 30 seconds, ensuring the spices are well combined and fragrant. This step helps to release the full flavour of the spices.
- Add tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate the drumstick leaves: Add the chopped drumstick leaves to the pan and mix well with the other ingredients. Add salt to taste.
- Simmer to perfection: Cover the pan and let the curry simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little water.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, garnish the curry with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Serve hot with rice, roti, or dosa.
Tips for the Best Drumstick Leaves Curry
- Fresh is best: Use fresh drumstick leaves for the best flavor and nutritional value.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can make the leaves mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly green leaves.
- Adjust spices: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to your liking.
- Coconut oil: Using coconut oil enhances the flavor of the curry.
Variations of this Delicious Dish
- Add lentils: For a heartier curry, add ½ cup of red lentils or toor dal along with the tomatoes.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or beans to make it a complete meal.
- Tempering with curry leaves: Enhance the aroma by tempering the curry with curry leaves along with the mustard seeds.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
- Calories: Around 150-200 calories
- Protein: Around 5-7 grams
- Fiber: Around 4-6 grams
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and various other vitamins and minerals.
This healthy and delicious drumstick leaves curry is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious dish, a testament to the versatility and health benefits of homemade cooking. It's a simple recipe with big flavor – perfect for busy weeknights!