Drumstick leaves Kulambu/Curry

Drumstick greens/leaves are an excellent source of Vitamin A offering several health benefits including maintenance of skin integrity, vision, immunity and mucus membrane repair. A good anti-oxidant too. It is so good for pregnant women & feeding moms as it is rich in iron, calcium & zinc.

My mom used to make this curry frequently with fresh, young, tender leaves, as we had a drumstick tree at my backyard. When I came to USA I missed it a lot as it is one my favorites. But I was so happy & excited to see fresh drumstick leaves at the Indian grocery store a year back. From then I used to buy it frequently & started enjoying this curry. I thought to post this recipe as I heard few people saying what dish can we make out of those leaves. It is a very simple, tasty & less time consuming recipe except for the cleaning part.

Drumstick leaves Kulambu/Curry Recipe

Preparation Time : 10 mins | Cooking Time : 15 mins | Serves : 4
Recipe Category : Gravy | Recipe Cuisine : South Indian

Ingredients

Drumstick leaves - a big bunch

To grind:
Shallots(small onions) - 4
Red chilli - 2
Garlic pods - 1
Coriander seeds - 1tsp
Toor dhal - 2 tsp 
Cumin seeds(jeera) - 1tsp
Coconut(shredded) - 2 tbsp
Curry leaves - a sprig


For seasoning:
Coconut Oil - 2 tsp
Mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp
Curry leaves - a sprig
Shallots - 5

Method

1. Clean the leaves without sticks and wash thoroughly.

2. Pre-cook the leaves with a cup of water for 10 mins till it becomes soft. 

3. Grind all the ingredients given under To Grind.

4. Heat the pan with coconut oil and season it with mustard seeds, curry leaves & shallots.

5. Then add the ground paste to the seasoning.

6. Add the pre-cooked leaves & required salt.

7. Cook in medium flame for 10-15 mins & switch off the flame.

Serve it with hot steamed rice or dosas.

Points to be noted:

• Select a fresh bunch with young tender leaves.
• Do not overcook the leaves or gravy as it will spoil the taste.