Shevgyachya Shenganchi Bhaji
A classic Maharashtrian curry where tender drumsticks are simmered in a flavorful gravy made with roasted peanuts, coconut, and sesame seeds. It's a nutty, spicy, and slightly sweet dish that pairs perfectly with bhakri or chapati.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Roast and Grind the Masala Paste (Vaatan)
- b.In a dry pan over low-medium heat, roast the peanuts until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- c.In the same pan, toast the sesame seeds for 30-60 seconds until they start to pop. Remove and set aside.
- d.Finally, roast the grated dry coconut until it turns a light golden brown. Watch carefully as it can burn quickly. Remove and let it cool.
- e.Once all roasted ingredients are completely cool, transfer them to a grinder. Blend into a smooth paste, adding a few tablespoons of water as needed to facilitate grinding.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Curry Base
- b.Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add the mustard seeds. Once they begin to splutter, add the cumin seeds and asafoetida (hing). Sauté for 30 seconds.
- d.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 7-8 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- e.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Tomatoes and Spices
- b.Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn soft and mushy.
- c.Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and goda masala. Sauté for one minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Simmer the Curry
- b.Add the prepared masala paste to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring continuously, until the masala releases oil from the sides.
- c.Add the cut drumstick pieces and mix gently to coat them thoroughly with the masala.
- d.Pour in 2 cups of hot water. Add salt, jaggery, and tamarind paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- e.Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the drumsticks are tender and cooked through.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Check if the drumsticks are tender by piercing one with a fork. Once cooked, turn off the heat.
- c.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- d.Let the curry rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- e.Serve hot with jowar bhakri, chapati, or steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, ensure you roast the peanuts, coconut, and sesame seeds properly without burning them.
- 2Choose tender, green drumsticks. Avoid mature ones as they can be fibrous and tough.
- 3Lightly scrape the outer skin of the drumsticks before cutting to remove some of the fibrous texture.
- 4The balance of jaggery (sweet) and tamarind (sour) is key. Adjust these according to your preference.
- 5If the gravy becomes too thick upon cooling, you can add a splash of hot water to adjust the consistency before serving.
- 6This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
Adapt it for your goals.
With Other Vegetables
You can add potatoes or brinjals (eggplant) along with the drumsticks. Add them after sautéing the masala and cook until tender.
No Onion Garlic VersionNo Onion-Garlic Version
For a Jain or Sattvic version, skip the onion and ginger-garlic paste. The curry will still be flavorful due to the roasted masala base.
Creamier GravyCreamier Gravy
For a richer, creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of cashew nuts while grinding the masala paste.
Different MasalaDifferent Masala
If you don't have Goda Masala, you can substitute it with a good quality garam masala, though the authentic Maharashtrian taste will differ slightly.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Drumsticks (moringa) are packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin A, iron, and calcium, which are essential for boosting immunity, improving vision, and strengthening bones.
Source of Healthy Fats
The use of peanuts, sesame seeds, and coconut provides monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and maintaining good cholesterol levels.
High in Dietary Fiber
This dish is rich in dietary fiber from drumsticks, onions, tomatoes, and the ground masala paste, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining a healthy weight.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and garlic are known for their powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this curry contains approximately 330-350 calories, primarily from the peanuts, coconut, and oil used in the gravy. The exact count can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.