Munakkaya Kura
A classic Andhra-style curry featuring tender drumsticks simmered in a spicy and tangy onion-tomato gravy. This flavorful dish is a staple in South Indian homes and pairs perfectly with hot steamed rice.
For 4 servings
9 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Begin by preparing the vegetables
- a.Wash the drumsticks thoroughly and cut them into 2-3 inch pieces. Finely chop the onions, puree the tomatoes, and slit the green chilies lengthwise. Set everything aside.
- 2
Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat
- a.Once hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they begin to splutter, add the urad dal (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until it turns light golden. Add the curry leaves and asafoetida, and cook for another 10 seconds until fragrant.
- 3
Add the finely chopped onions and slit green chilies to the pan
- a.Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and golden brown.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for about 1 minute until the raw smell disappears.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the masala on medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens and you see oil separating from the sides.
- 6
Add the cut drumstick pieces to the masala
- a.Gently stir to coat them evenly. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing the drumsticks to absorb the flavors.
- 7
Pour in 1.5 cups of water and add the tamarind paste
- a.Stir everything together to combine. Increase the heat and bring the curry to a rolling boil.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. The curry is done when the drumsticks are tender (easily pierced with a fork) and the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
- 9
Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves
- a.Let the curry rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Select tender, bright green drumsticks for the best flavor and texture. Avoid ones that are dry or woody.
- 2Do not overcook the drumsticks, as they can become mushy and disintegrate into the gravy.
- 3For a thicker gravy, you can add a paste of 1 tablespoon of rice flour mixed with 2 tablespoons of water in the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- 4The flavor of the curry deepens over time, making it taste even better the next day.
- 5To eat the drumsticks, hold one end and pull the piece through your teeth to scrape out the soft, flavorful pulp and seeds inside.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Include cubed potatoes or brinjal (eggplant) along with the drumsticks for a heartier curry. Add them after sautéing the onions.
Creamy VersionCreamy Version
For a richer, milder gravy, add 1/4 cup of coconut milk or a paste of ground cashews during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
With LentilsWith Lentils
Add 2-3 tablespoons of soaked and cooked toor dal (pigeon peas) along with the water to give the gravy more body and protein.
Different TangDifferent Tang
If you don't have tamarind, you can use 1 teaspoon of amchur (dry mango powder) or the juice of half a lemon, added at the end of cooking.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Drumsticks are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which boosts immunity, as well as essential minerals like iron for blood health, calcium for strong bones, and potassium for heart function.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The curry is made with spices like turmeric, which contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. Onions and garlic also contribute to reducing inflammation in the body.
Promotes Healthy Digestion
The fiber from drumsticks and other vegetables aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Spices like cumin and asafoetida are traditionally used to prevent bloating and improve digestive processes.
Good for Bone Health
The significant amounts of calcium and iron found in drumsticks are crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones, helping to prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Munakkaya Kura is quite healthy. Drumsticks (munakkaya) are a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in Vitamin C, iron, calcium, and antioxidants. The curry also contains tomatoes, onions, and various spices like turmeric, which have anti-inflammatory properties.