Steamed Drumsticks with Yogurt-Mint Dip
Enjoy a simple and healthy snack or side dish featuring tender steamed drumsticks (Moringa pods) paired with a vibrant, protein-rich Greek yogurt and fresh mint dip. This low-calorie recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients.
For 3 servings
Wash the drumsticks thoroughly under cold running water. Trim off any tough ends and cut each drumstick into 3-4 inch pieces.
Fill a large pot with about 1-2 inches of water. Place a steamer basket inside, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the basket. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
Carefully arrange the cut drumstick pieces in a single layer within the steamer basket. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cover the pot tightly and reduce the heat to medium-high.
Steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the drumsticks are tender when pierced with a fork and the inner pulp is soft and easily scraped from the fibrous outer skin.
While the drumsticks are steaming, prepare the yogurt-mint dip. In a small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic (if using), finely chopped fresh mint, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Stir all dip ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice for tang or salt/pepper to your preference.
Once steamed, carefully remove the drumsticks from the steamer basket. They should be vibrant green and tender.
Serve the warm steamed drumsticks immediately alongside the cool and refreshing yogurt-mint dip. Guests can scrape the edible pulp from the drumstick pieces using their teeth or a small spoon.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choosing Drumsticks: Select firm, bright green drumsticks without any yellowing or soft spots. Smaller, younger pods tend to be more tender and less fibrous.
- 2Steaming Doneness: Drumsticks are perfectly cooked when they are tender enough to easily scrape the pulp from the fibrous outer skin. Be careful not to over-steam, as they can become mushy.
- 3Enhance the Dip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tiny pinch of roasted cumin powder or a dash of finely chopped green chili to the yogurt dip for a subtle kick.
- 4Serving Suggestion: These steamed drumsticks are excellent as a light snack, a healthy appetizer, or a vibrant side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or a vegetarian main course.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Drumsticks
Toss the steamed drumsticks with a sprinkle of chili powder, a pinch of chaat masala, or a light drizzle of chili oil before serving for an added spicy kick.
Herb Variations for DipHerb Variations for Dip
Replace or combine fresh mint with other herbs like fresh dill, cilantro, or a mix of finely chopped parsley and chives for a different aromatic profile in the yogurt dip.
Roasted DrumsticksRoasted Drumsticks
Instead of steaming, toss the drumstick pieces with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, offering a different texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Nutrient Powerhouse
Moringa drumsticks are exceptionally rich in vitamins (C, B6), minerals (iron, magnesium), and powerful antioxidants, supporting overall health, boosting immunity, and fighting oxidative stress.
High in Fiber
The significant fiber content in drumsticks aids in healthy digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps in regulating blood sugar levels, contributing to better gut health.
Protein-Rich Dip
Greek yogurt provides a substantial amount of high-quality protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth, satiety, and maintaining a healthy metabolism, making the snack more filling.
Frequently asked questions
While the outer skin of drumsticks is fibrous and generally not eaten, the tender, fleshy pulp inside is scraped out and consumed. Very young, tender pods might have a less fibrous skin, but it's typically discarded for a better eating experience.
