Drumstick Gravy | Murungakkai Masala 

Murungakkai Masala, or South Indian Drumstick Gravy, is a flavorful and wholesome side dish that celebrates the unique taste of drumsticks. Made with tender drumsticks, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spice powders, this traditional recipe is a staple in South Indian kitchens. Its robust flavors and simple preparation make it a versatile accompaniment to rice or any South Indian meal.

Drumsticks, or murungakkai in Tamil, are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamins. They are a key ingredient in South Indian cuisine, often featured in sambar and other gravies. In this masala, the drumsticks are simmered in a spiced onion-tomato base, creating a gravy that’s rich, mildly tangy, and deeply satisfying.

The beauty of Murungakkai Masala lies in its simplicity. Using common pantry staples like chili powder, turmeric, and coriander powder, you can create a dish that bursts with authentic South Indian flavors. For added richness, you can incorporate freshly ground coconut or coconut milk, though the basic version is just as delicious.

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but it can also be served alongside idli, dosa, chapati, or even poori for a hearty and wholesome meal. Its straightforward preparation and minimal ingredients make it an excellent choice for busy weekdays, while its traditional flavors bring a touch of nostalgia to your table.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through making Murungakkai Masala step by step. Whether you’re a fan of drumsticks or exploring South Indian cuisine, this easy-to-make gravy will surely become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive in and create this delicious and healthy dish!

Ingredients

Drumstick-3 nos cut to finger length pieces

Onion-2 nos chopped fine

Tomato-2 -3 nos chopped fine

Ginger garlic paste-1 Tsp 

Green chillies-2 slit length wise

Turmeric powder-1/2 Tsp

Red chilly powder-1 Tsp

Dhaniya powder-2 Tsp

Cumin powder-1/2 Tsp

Pepper powder-1/8 Tsp 

Garam masala powder-1/2 Tsp

Mustard seeds-1/2 Tsp 

Cumin seeds-1/2 Tsp 

Fennel seeds-1/2 Tsp 

Curry leaves and coriander leaves few
Salt to taste

Oil-2-3 Tsps 

Recipe Video 

Method

👉Heat oil in a kadai add mustard seeds,cumin seeds, fennel seeds, curry leaves, green chillies and allow it to splutter .Next add onions sauté until onions are cooked.

👉 Add ginger garlic paste, tomatoes saute for a minute.

 

👉Add all the masala powders and sauté for few seconds.

👉Now add the drumsticks mix well

👉Pour 1 1/2 - 2 cups of water or just enough to cover the drumsticks.

👉Cook covered for 10 minutes making sure to occasionally stir the drumsticks.

👉Once the drumsticks are cooked add required salt mix well and again cook covered for 2 mins.

👉Open the kadai and allow the gravy to boil to desired consistency.

👉Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and switch off the gas.

👉Serve hot with steamed rice. Enjoy.

Preparation time- 20 mins

Serves-4