Murungai Keerai Poriyal | Drumstick Leaves Stir Fry

Drumstick leaves, as you all know, are very nutritious and have numerous health benefits. You can make curry, stir-fry or add them in your dosa or adai. Couple of weeks back, I was surprised to see fresh murungai keerai in the local market – for the first time here! Anyways I got a big bunch and after some debating decided to make a stir-fry with it.

Drumstick leaves have a slightly bitter taste but the addition of shallots adds a bit of sweetness which takes away some of the bitterness. There are not really any spices in this stir-fry – a simple tempering, shallots and fresh coconut imparts flavor to this healthy dish. I served with sambar and rice – happy tummy!!! Off to the recipe now!

Murungai Keerai Poriyal | Drumstick Leaves Stir Fry

Drumstick leaves stir-fry with shallots and coconut

Print Pin Recipe

Servings 3

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Ingredients

• 2 tsp oil
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp split urad dal
• 2 dry red chillies broken
• 2 green chillies slit
• Pinch of asafoetida / hing
• 1 cup chopped shallots
• 3 cup murungai keerai / drumstick leaves
• Pinch of turmeric powder
• ¼ cup grated coconut
• Salt to taste

Instructions

• Wash the leaves under running water and set aside in a colander to drain.
• Heat a pan and add oil. Add mustard seeds and when it starts to splutter, add urad dal, red chillies and asafoetida.
• Once dal is golden, add green chillies, onions and fry till the onions are soft and transcluscent.
• Then add the drumstick leaves, turmeric powder, salt and mix well. Cook uncovered for 5-6 minutes or till the leaves are cooked.
• Add the grated coconut and mix well.

Notes

• You can skip the green chillies and add red chilly powder or flakes instead.
• You can use chopped brown onion instead of shallots.

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: Stri-Fry