Andhra Style Urlugadda Munagakaya Charu – Potato and Drumstick Gravy
This Andhra-style Urlugadda Munagakaya Charu is a quick and flavorful vegetable gravy made with a blend of potatoes and drumsticks, cooked in a delightful onion-tomato base. The combination of spices creates a rich, aromatic gravy that’s perfect when served with steamed rice or pulkas. With the earthiness of the drumsticks and the comforting nature of potatoes, this dish offers a delicious side to complement your meal. A must-try for those who enjoy spicy, traditional Andhra cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo), cut into cubes | 4 medium potatoes |
| Drumsticks, cut into 2-inch pieces | 2 drumsticks |
| Onions, finely chopped | 2 large onions |
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 2 medium tomatoes |
| Green Chilli, finely chopped | 1 green chili |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | ½ teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Coriander Leaves, for garnish | A few sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Value per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Sugar | 4g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Instructions
-
Prep the Vegetables:
- Peel and cube the potatoes. Place them in a bowl of water to prevent browning until you’re ready to cook.
- Cut the drumsticks into 2-inch pieces and set aside.
-
Temper the Spices:
- Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter and crackle.
- Add the curry leaves and let them sizzle for a few seconds, releasing their aromatic fragrance.
-
Sauté Onions:
- Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
-
Cook the Vegetables:
- Drain the potato cubes and add them to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Add the drumstick pieces and mix them into the onions and potatoes.
- Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour in about 2 cups of water, mix everything together, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld.
-
Simmer the Gravy:
- After 10 minutes, check the vegetables for doneness. If the potatoes and drumsticks are tender, add the coriander powder and adjust salt to taste.
- Let the dish simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken and the flavors to concentrate.
- If you prefer a more soupy consistency, you can add additional water at this stage. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes.
-
Final Touches:
- Once the vegetables are fully cooked and the gravy has reached your desired consistency, garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this hearty Andhra-style Urlugadda Munagakaya Charu with steamed rice, or as a side dish to complement your favorite pulkas (soft Indian flatbreads).
- For a complete meal, pair it with a tangy Mango Rasam and Beans Vepudu for a traditional Andhra feast.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder based on your preference for spiciness.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker gravy, allow it to simmer longer, or mash a few potato cubes to help thicken the sauce. For a soupier texture, simply add more water.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or brinjal (eggplant) for added flavor and nutrition.
- Tempering Variations: You can also add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the tempering for extra flavor, especially if you enjoy its distinctive aroma.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Andhra-style Urlugadda Munagakaya Charu is an incredibly simple yet delicious dish that combines the best of traditional Andhra flavors. The drumsticks infuse the gravy with their unique flavor, while the potatoes offer a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the spiced onion-tomato gravy. It’s a warming, nutritious, and flavorful dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want to serve something wholesome without too much effort.
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Andhra recipe with your family, and feel free to experiment with different spice levels to make it your own!
