Drumstick Poriyal, also known as Murungakkai Poriyal, is a traditional South Indian dish that combines the unique flavour of drumsticks (Moringa oleifera) with a medley of aromatic spices. This stir-fried poriyal recipe with drumsticks is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meal.
Typically served as a side dish with rice and sambar or rasam, drumstick poriyal is a favourite in many South Indian households.
Whether you’re new to South Indian cuisine or looking to incorporate more healthy and wholesome dishes into your diet, this simple yet flavourful poriyal recipe is sure to impress.
What is Poriyal?
Poriyal is a quintessential South Indian side dish, typically made by stir-frying vegetables with spices, curry leaves, and grated coconut. It’s light, flavorful, and quick to prepare, making it a staple in South Indian households. The word “poriyal” comes from Tamil and refers to any vegetable dish that is sautéed or stir-fried.
Health Benefits of Drumsticks
Drumsticks, also called moringa pods, are nutrient powerhouses:
- Rich in Vitamins: High in vitamin C and A, promoting immunity and eye health.
- Bone Strength: Contain calcium and iron, aiding bone health and preventing anemia.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Help reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
- Digestive Aid: High in fiber, supporting healthy digestion and gut health.
- Skin & Hair Health: Antioxidants and nutrients contribute to radiant skin and stronger hair.
Drumstick Poriyal Recipe:
Drumstick Poriyal is a delightful South Indian side dish that combines the earthy flavours of drumsticks with the aromatic richness of traditional spices. This simple yet nutritious moringa recipe is perfect for those looking to add a healthy and delicious element to their meals.
Serve it with rice and a curry of your choice for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the burst of flavours in every bite and experience the essence of South Indian cuisine right at home.
- For drumstick poriyal recipe, firstly wash the drumsticks thoroughly.
- Then cut them into 1 ½ inch pieces. Slightly peel the ridges and edges to remove the tough outer layer.
- In a pan, add the drumstick pieces with a little water and a pinch of salt and turmeric.
- Cover and cook on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the drumsticks are tender but not mushy.
- Drain any excess water and set aside.
- In the meantime, take chopped coconut, onion, green chilli, garlic and cumin seeds in a mixie jar.
- Grind the poriyal ingredients. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Temper with mustard seeds and curry leaves.
- Add the cooked drumsticks and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Now add the ground mixture and salt.
- Combine all the ingredients well.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.
- Serve Drumstick Poriyal hot as a side dish with steamed rice, sambar, or rasam.
If you are looking for more drumstick curry recipes, then do try out Drumstick Cashew Curry
Drumstick Poriyal Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with steamed rice and sambar for a wholesome South Indian meal.
- Serve alongside curd rice for a cooling contrast.
- Combine with rasam and papad for a comforting, homely meal.
Murungakkai Poriyal Variations
- Garlic Twist: Add crushed garlic to the tempering for extra flavor.
- Onion Addition: Sauté finely chopped onions before adding the drumsticks.
- Spice Boost: Add a teaspoon of sambar powder for a spicy kick.
- Lentil Mix: Stir in cooked toor dal (pigeon peas) for a protein boost.
Tips for Perfect Drumstick Poriyal
- Fresh Drumsticks: Use fresh, tender drumsticks for the best taste and texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the drumsticks until just tender; overcooking makes them mushy.
- Even Coconut Distribution: Mix the coconut gently to coat the drumsticks evenly.
- Curry Leaves: Fresh curry leaves enhance the authentic South Indian flavor.
- Right Oil: Coconut oil is ideal for that signature aroma.
Murungakkai Poriyal Recipe details below:
South Indian Drumstick Poriyal Recipe
Ingredients
For cooking drumsticks:
- 10 drumsticks cut into 1 ½ pieces
- 2 cups water
- ¼ tsp turmeric
- ¼ tsp salt
For grinding:
- ½ cup chopped coconut
- 2 green chillies
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- ½ tsp jeera
For drumstick stir-fry:
- 2 tsp oil
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Wash the drumsticks thoroughly. Trim the ends and cut the drumsticks into 1 ½ inch pieces.
- Boil the drumstick pieces in a pot of water with a pinch of salt and turmeric until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, grind together chopped coconut, onion, garlic, green chilli and cumin seeds. Keep aside.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
- Now add the cooked drumsticks and mix well.
- Put in the ground mixture. Sprinkle salt and stir to combine well.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Serve Murungakkai Poriyal is as a side dish with steamed rice and sambar or rasam.
