Learn how to make Murungakkai Paya (Drumstick Paya) with a quick video tutorial and detailed step by step photos. This vegetarian paya is simple, comforting and pairs well with Appam, Idiyappam, Idli or Dosai.
In a blender add ½ cup Coconut chopped, 1 Green Chilli, ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper, ¼ teaspoon Cumin Seeds, ½ teaspoon Fennel Seeds, Small Stone Flower/Kalpasi (gasagasa), whole spices - 2 Cloves, 1 Cardamom, ½ Cinnamon, Small Stone Flower/Kalpasi and 10 Whole Cashews.
Adding Water as needed, grind into a smooth paste and set it aside.
In a claypot, heat 2 tablespoon Peanut Oil. Add 1 Bay Leaf, 2 Cloves, 1 Cardamom, ½ Cinnamon and 1 Green Chilli slit.
Add 2 Onions finely sliced and fry until translucent.
Next add 1 teaspoon Ginger Garlic Paste and cook until the raw smell is gone.
Add 2 Tomatoes sliced and cook them for 2-3 minutes.
Now add ⅓ cup Mint & Cilantro, cook for another 2 minutes.
Add 10-12 Drumstick Pieces along with 1 Potato chopped. Cook them for a few minutes.
Next add the freshly prepared masala, add water as needed along with Salt as needed for taste. Mix well.
Cook on low heat until it begins to boil. Cover and cook on low flame for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are cooked and oil floats on top.
Give the paya a good mix every few minutes to prevent it from burning at the bottom and once oil separates, remove from heat.
Serve hot with idiyappam, idli, dosai or appams.
Video
Notes
Adjust the number of green chillies depending on the spice preference.
This paya is typically thin and flowy. Add water as needed while cooking to get the desired consistency.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Murungakkai Paya | Drumstick Paya
Amount per Serving
Calories
180
% Daily Value*
Fat
13
g
20
%
Saturated Fat
5
g
31
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
3
g
Monounsaturated Fat
5
g
Sodium
381
mg
17
%
Potassium
350
mg
10
%
Carbohydrates
15
g
5
%
Fiber
5
g
21
%
Sugar
6
g
7
%
Protein
3
g
6
%
Vitamin A
698
IU
14
%
Vitamin C
22
mg
27
%
Calcium
73
mg
7
%
Iron
2
mg
11
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.