Drum Stick Huli

Method

1. 1

   Prepare drumstick: Wash 6-8 drumstick pods. Scrape lightly. Cut into 2-inch pieces.

2. 2

   Soak tamarind: Soak a lemon-sized tamarind in 1.5 cups warm water. Extract and strain.

3. 3

   Make Karnataka huli masala: Blend half cup fresh grated coconut, 4 dried red chillies, 1 tbsp coriander seeds, half tsp cumin, half tsp peppercorns and half tsp turmeric to a smooth paste.

4. 4

   Cook toor dal: Pressure cook half cup toor dal for 4 whistles. Mash completely.

5. 5

   Cook drumstick in tamarind: Add tamarind water, drumstick pieces, half tsp turmeric and salt to a pan. Boil 8-10 minutes until drumstick is tender.

6. 6

   Add mashed dal: Add mashed toor dal. Stir well.

7. 7

   Add coconut masala: Add the huli masala. Mix thoroughly. Add half cup water.

8. 8

   Simmer: Cook on medium heat 8-10 minutes until well blended.

9. 9

   Make tempering: Heat 2 tbsp oil. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds — when they pop add 2 dried red chillies and curry leaves. Add 8 sliced shallots and fry until golden. Pour over huli.

10. 10

    Serve: Adjust salt. Drumstick huli is Karnataka's tamarind-coconut drumstick sambar. Serve with steamed rice.