MURINGAKKAI/ DRUMSTICK THEEYAL

Muringakkai Theeyal (Drumstick Coconut Curry) – Kerala Style

Muringakkai Theeyal is a classic Kerala preparation where drumsticks are cooked in a roasted coconut-based gravy with spices. It’s mildly spiced, aromatic, and pairs beautifully with plain rice or Kerala parotta.

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✅ Ingredients

• 4–5 drumsticks (muringakkai), cut into 3-inch pieces

• 1 cup grated coconut

• 2–3 dried red chilies

• 1 tsp coriander seeds

• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 small piece of ginger

• 3–4 garlic cloves

• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 small onion, sliced

• 1 sprig curry leaves

• 2 tbsp coconut oil

• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds

• Salt – to taste

• Tamarind – a small lemon-sized ball soaked in water (or 1½ tbsp tamarind paste)

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✅ How to Make Muringakkai Theeyal

1. Roast the coconut and spices
   In a pan, dry roast grated coconut, red chilies, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds until the coconut turns golden and aromatic. Cool slightly.

2. Grind the masala
   Blend the roasted mixture with ginger and garlic, adding a little water to form a smooth paste.

3. Cook the drumsticks
   In a pan, heat coconut oil. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add curry leaves and onions; sauté until the onions turn soft.

4. Add the spices
   Add turmeric powder and the ground masala paste. Sauté for a minute.

5. Add drumsticks and tamarind
   Add the cut drumsticks, salt, and tamarind extract. Mix well. Add water as needed to cover the drumsticks halfway.

6. Simmer
   Cover and cook on low flame for about 15–20 minutes, until the drumsticks are tender and the flavors blend.

7. Final touch
   Adjust salt and tamarind. Cook uncovered for a few minutes to thicken the gravy.

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✅ Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with steamed white rice or red rice.

• Goes well with chapati or Kerala parotta.

• Top with a drizzle of coconut oil before serving for extra flavor.

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💡 Tips

✔ Roast the coconut slowly for the best aroma.
✔ Tamarind adds a tangy depth—adjust the quantity according to taste.
✔ Curry leaves enhance the flavor; don’t skip them.
✔ For a richer taste, add a little coconut milk at the end.

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🧡 Final Thoughts

Muringakkai Theeyal is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings out the best of Kerala’s traditional cuisine. It’s simple to prepare but deeply satisfying, with the nutty roasted coconut, tangy tamarind, and aromatic spices balancing perfectly. Try it with rice for a wholesome, home-cooked meal!