Drumstick Varuthathu (Spiced Coconut Drumsticks)

Ingredients

• Drumsticks - 6 whole
• Coconut - 1 cup
• Onion - 1 cup
• Green chili - 2 whole
• Cumin seeds - 1/4 tsp
• Mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp
• Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp
• Oil
• Coconut oil
• Salt

Instructions

1. 1Cut the drumsticks into two-inch pieces, then use the tip of a knife or a spoon to scoop out the white fleshy lining from inside each segment.
2. 2Chop the onion and set it aside, and grind the coconut, cumin seeds, and green chilies together into a coarse paste.
3. 3Heat oil in a pan until hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter, releasing their aroma.
4. 4Add the chopped onion, the prepared drumstick pieces, turmeric powder, and salt; mix everything together so the spices coat the drumsticks.
5. 5Cook for 5 minutes without adding water, stirring now and then, until the drumsticks begin to soften.
6. 6Stir in the coconut, cumin, and chili paste and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes dry and the coconut is lightly toasted and fragrant.
7. 7Drizzle coconut oil over the cooked drumsticks, toss to coat, then remove the pan from the heat and serve.
8. 8Optional: serve warm as a side with steamed rice or rotis for a comforting meal.