Drumstick Leaf Thoran

The method

Step by step

Written for first-time cooks — every quantity, timing and cue is spelled out.

1. 01

   Get your tools and everything ready

   Keep these ready before you switch on the gas: chopping board, knife, measuring spoons, measuring cups, mixing bowl, kadhai/wok, stirring spoon/spatula, serving bowl. Wash, peel and chop everything in the list above and line the bowls next to the stove. Indian cooking moves fast once the pan is hot, so having it all within arm's reach is what keeps a first-timer calm.

2. 02

   Step 1

   Strip drumstick leaves off the stalks and rinse well. Keep the flame on medium unless the step says low, stir every 20-30 seconds so nothing catches at the bottom, and taste before moving on — salt goes in a pinch at a time.

3. 03

   Step 2

   Crush coconut with chilli, garlic, turmeric and jeera. Keep the flame on medium unless the step says low, stir every 20-30 seconds so nothing catches at the bottom, and taste before moving on — salt goes in a pinch at a time.

4. 04

   Step 3

   Temper mustard seeds and curry leaves in coconut oil, add onion. Keep the flame on medium unless the step says low, stir every 20-30 seconds so nothing catches at the bottom, and taste before moving on — salt goes in a pinch at a time.

5. 05

   Step 4

   Add the leaves and salt; cook uncovered 5 min so they stay green. Keep the flame on medium unless the step says low, stir every 20-30 seconds so nothing catches at the bottom, and taste before moving on — salt goes in a pinch at a time.

6. 06

   Step 5

   Fold in the coconut mix and cook 3 min. Keep the flame on medium unless the step says low, stir every 20-30 seconds so nothing catches at the bottom, and taste before moving on — salt goes in a pinch at a time.

7. 07

   Taste, finish and serve

   Turn off the heat and taste once more: flat means a pinch more salt, heavy means a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot. Serves 3 — use the serving selector above to scale every quantity.