Stir Fried Drumstick Leaves

They say it tastes bitter; I don't think so.. Drumstick Leaves (or Murungai Keerai) is packed with nutrients, to be specific, it is rich in iron. It is one of those recommended leafy varieties for those who suffer from anemia and rheumatism.

My mom use to cook it along with coconut milk or she adds it to rice porridge. But I like drumstick leaves this way. With the touch of coconut and tempered spices, you literally forget that it is bitter. I swear, it tastes so good!

Number of Servings : 2-4 

Ingredients:

Drumstick Leaves (Separated from stalks & cleaned)- 4 Cups 

Shredded Coconut - 3/4 Cup

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To Temper:

Finely Chopped Shallots - 4-5

Crushed Dried Red Chilli - 2-3

Split Yellow Pea - 1 Tbsp

Urad Dal - 1 Tbsp

Turmeric powder - 1/2 Tsp

Mustard Seeds - 1 Tsp

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Salt - to taste

Oil - 3 Tbsp

Method:

1. In a heated pan of oil, add mustard seeds and let it splutter. Next add the yellow pea, urad dal, crushed chilli and turmeric powder. After sauteing for a couple of seconds, add the shallots and cook until it is slightly golden.

2. Add the leaves and cook for a minute after which the coconut should be added.

3. Stir well and cook uncovered for few minutes (note that the leaves should not be overcooked). Add salt to your taste, mix well and turn off the heat.

And that's all about it! It takes only a matter of minutes to serve your family a healthy meal. I would empty a plate of rice with just this poriyal and some pepper rasam! 

Now it's your turn!