Drumstick Pulimunchi Curry

Ingredients:

For the Masala Paste:

• 1 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 4-5 dried red chilies (adjust to spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

For the Curry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal (black gram)
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3-4 drumsticks, cleaned and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 1 lemon-sized tamarind ball, soaked in water and extracted
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

For Tempering:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 2 dried red chilies
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

Cooking Steps:

Step 1: Prepare Masala Paste In a dry pan, roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dried red chilies, fenugreek seeds, and turmeric powder until fragrant. Grind these roasted spices with grated coconut to make a smooth masala paste. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Drumsticks In a large pan, heat vegetable oil. Add mustard seeds, urad dal, and curry leaves. Once mustard seeds splutter, add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add drumstick pieces and cook for a few minutes.

Step 3: Add Masala Paste Pour the prepared masala paste into the pan with sautéed onions and drumsticks. Mix well, ensuring the masala coats the drumsticks evenly.

Step 4: Tamarind Extract Add the tamarind extract to the pan, along with salt. Stir and let the curry simmer until the drumsticks are tender. Add water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5: Prepare Tempering In a small pan, heat oil for tempering. Add mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and a pinch of asafoetida. Once the mustard seeds splutter, pour the tempering over the Drumstick Pulimunchi Curry.

Step 6: Serve Allow the flavors to meld for a few minutes. Serve the Drumstick Pulimunchi Curry hot with steamed rice or your favorite Indian bread.

This Drumstick Pulimunchi Curry is a delightful symphony of flavors, combining the earthiness of drumsticks with the tanginess of tamarind and the aromatic spices. Enjoy this authentic South Indian curry for a satisfying and flavorful meal.