Nuggekayi Palya

Method

1. 1

   Prepare drumstick: Wash 4-5 nuggekayi (drumstick) pods. Scrape lightly. Cut into 2-inch pieces. Parboil in salted water with turmeric for 8-10 minutes until tender. Drain.

2. 2

   Make tempering: Heat 2 tbsp oil. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds — when they pop add 1 tsp urad dal and fry golden.

3. 3

   Add aromatics: Add 2 dried red chillies, 1 sprig curry leaves and a pinch of asafoetida.

4. 4

   Add onion: Add 1 finely chopped onion. Cook 5 minutes until golden.

5. 5

   Add parboiled drumstick: Add drumstick pieces and toss gently in the tempered oil.

6. 6

   Add spices: Add half tsp turmeric, 1 tsp red chilli powder and 1 tsp coriander powder. Toss and cook 3 minutes.

7. 7

   Cook together: Cook on medium heat 4-5 minutes.

8. 8

   Add fresh coconut: Add 3 tbsp freshly grated coconut. Toss gently 2 minutes.

9. 9

   Add lemon: Squeeze half a lemon. Toss.

10. 10

    Serve: Adjust salt. Eat drumstick by pressing between teeth to extract the inner flesh. Serve with steamed rice.