Drumstick (Moringa) leaves are small in size and oval to obovate, or tear-drop shaped. The vibrant green feathery leaflets are smooth, thick, and firm, and grow in a tripinnate structure. They offer a slightly bitter flavor with grass-like undertones and can often have a horseradish-like heat. During the cooking process, they release a distinct grassy aroma.

Health Benefits

Drumstick leaves are considered a superfood and are an excellent source of beta-carotene, calcium, protein, vitamins C, B6, A, and E, potassium, and amino acids.

Usage

Drumstick leaves can be consumed raw or in cooked applications such as sautéing and boiling. They can be used like spinach and incorporated into curries, stews, dals, sambars, chutneys, and clear broth-based soups. They can also be sliced or chopped and used in salads or as a garnish for dishes. Drumstick leaves pair well with chilies, turmeric, garlic, onions, ginger, curry leaves, tomatoes, potatoes, shrimp paste, anchovies or sardines, coconut milk, fish, pork and chicken.

Storage

They will keep up to one week when stored unwashed in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.