Drumsticks, that go by several names across Indian regions are widely used to make dals, stir-fries, curries and sambar. Known as shevga in Marathi, sajjan ki phalli in Hindi and murungakkai in Tamil, drumsticks are often steamed before tossing in a tempering of spices. Put on a plate or mixed in rice, a drumstick has to be squeezed open with your fingers so that the juicy flesh inside can be sucked along with the flavours of the masalas absorbed by the vegetable.
There are several curry recipes that can be concocted using drumsticks. In Indian cuisine, this vegetable is added to every day cooking, in subzis and curries, whenever it is in season. Drumsticks have numerous benefits from boosting immunity to enhancing gut health. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and are good for improving bone density. Read on below for some drumstick recipes that are warm and nourishing and can be easily prepared at home.
Mulakkada Curry
Drumstick curry or mulakkada curry is a delicious southern Indian variation of this subzi made by adding peanuts, sesame and dried coconuts to the recipe. Sometimes, coconut milk is also used to make this curry to give it a slightly creamier texture. Mulakkada curry is best enjoyed warm, paired with steamed rice.
Also read: Creamy and Aromatic Coconut-Based Curries: Exploring the Delights of South Indian Cuisine
Shevga Bhaji
Shevha bhaji is a Maharashtrian variation of the moringa or drumstick vegetable cooked like a stir-fry. Tossed in finely chopped onions, crushed peanuts, freshly grated coconut and curry leaves, this stir-fry can be relished with warm chapatis and some pickle. Shevga bhaji can be made by directly tossing drumsticks onto the pan without steaming them prior to cooking.
Saragva Nu Shaak
This Gujarati delicacy is a delicious dish made in yoghurt curry. Enjoyed with warm, plain parathas, it is made in a base of chickpea flour or besan infused with the strong flavours of ginger-garlic paste, chillies, turmeric, mustard and carom. Nourishing and full of energy, this recipe is ideal for those who experience gluten intolerance.
Drumstick Aamti
Another variation from Maharashtra and some parts of southern India, drumstick aamti is made by adding shevga to tur dal. Drumsticks are also added to sambar, akin to the aamti, for their particular taste. The distinct flavour of steamed drumsticks seeps into the aamti infused with tamarind and curry leaves for giving a heightened layer of flavour to the recipe.
Drumstick And Potato Curry
Drumstick and potato curry is an extremely filling and delicious recipe that makes optimum use of the particular flavour of this vegetable. Potatoes can be replaced with sweet potatoes for a healthier version. Chunks of boiled potatoes are mixed in a tempering of onions, green chillies, tomatoes and curry leaves to prepare this dish, savoured with warm rotis.