Spicy South Indian Drumstick Curry (Murungakkai Puli Kuzhambu)

Murungakkai Puli Kuzhambu Recipe – Spicy Drumstick Curry

Murungakkai Puli Kuzhambu, also known as Spicy Drumstick Curry, is a flavorful and aromatic South Indian dish that blends the tanginess of tamarind with the earthy richness of drumsticks (moringa) and the warmth of spices. This hearty, comforting curry is typically enjoyed with a bowl of steaming rice, making it a perfect side dish for lunch or dinner. Packed with nutrients, it’s not just delicious but also healthy, thanks to the powerful drumstick pods that are rich in vitamins and minerals. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it a great addition to your everyday meals.

Ingredients

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4

Cuisine: South Indian

Course: Side Dish

Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

1. Heat the Pressure Cooker:
   Begin by placing a pressure cooker on medium heat. Add a teaspoon of sunflower oil and let it warm up.

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2. Add Seeds and Spices:
   Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and methi (fenugreek) seeds. Allow the seeds to crackle and release their aroma.

3. Sauté Aromatics:
   Add the halved or quartered shallots (baby onions) to the cooker. Stir-fry for about a minute or until they soften and release their fragrance. Then, add the diced tomato and curry leaves, cooking for another minute until the tomatoes begin to soften and break down.

4. Add Drumsticks and Spices:
   Next, add the drumstick pieces to the cooker, followed by tamarind water. Stir well to combine. Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and sambar powder to the pot. Taste and adjust the salt to your liking.

5. Cook Under Pressure:
   Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the Murungakkai Puli Kuzhambu for about 3 to 4 whistles on medium heat. Once done, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.

6. Serve:
   After the pressure has released, open the cooker and give the curry a gentle stir. Transfer the Murungakkai Puli Kuzhambu to a serving bowl.

7. Enjoy:
   Serve the spicy drumstick curry with hot rice, a crispy vegetable like urulai kizhangu (potato) roast, and a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.

Tips for the Perfect Murungakkai Puli Kuzhambu:

• Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thinner curry, you can add a little more water or tamarind water after cooking and simmer it for a few minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Spice levels: If you like it spicier, you can add a chopped green chili or increase the amount of sambar powder.
• Flavor enhancement: Adding a pinch of jaggery or sugar can help balance the tangy and spicy flavors, giving a touch of sweetness to the curry.
• Alternate vegetables: While drumsticks are traditional in this recipe, you can also add other vegetables like brinjal (eggplant) or bottle gourd for a variation.

This comforting and spicy Murungakkai Puli Kuzhambu is sure to be a hit at your dining table, delivering a burst of South Indian flavors with every bite!