Vegetable
Moringa Pods — commonly known as drumsticks are the long, slender seed pods of the moringa tree. Each pod is ribbed and green, typically reaching 12–18 inches in length. They are a staple in Indian, Filipino, and Southeast Asian cooking, valued for their mildly sweet, earthy flavor and nutrient-rich profile.
How chefs use it:
Curries & Stews: A key ingredient in South Indian dishes like sambar and lentil stews.
Soups & Broths: Simmered for flavor, then scraped for the tender pulp inside.
Stir-Fries: Cut into sections and sautéed with spices, garlic, and onion.
Boiled or Steamed: Often served as a side dish, seasoned simply.
Texture & Prep Tips: The outer skin is fibrous and tough, so pods are usually cut into 2–3 inch pieces and simmered. Diners chew and scrape out the soft interior pulp and seeds, discarding the fibrous husk. Young pods are more tender and fully edible.
Flavor profile in a dish: Mildly vegetal with a hint of sweetness, similar to green beans or asparagus. The soft inner flesh absorbs spices and broths beautifully, lending subtle flavor while boosting nutrition.