Avarekalu Saaru Veg Recipes of Karnataka Made Easy

Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage offers a treasure trove of flavors, and one such gem is the beloved Avarekalu Saaru. This vibrant and comforting veggie curry celebrates the seasonal avarekalu beans, also known as hyacinth beans, which are cherished for their earthy taste and nutritional benefits.

Originating from the southern region of India, this dish is a staple in many households during the avarekalu season, bringing families together around the table to enjoy its hearty, tangy, and mildly spiced flavors.

Avarekalu Saaru is more than just a curry; it’s a celebration of Karnataka’s agrarian traditions and the versatility of local produce. Whether you are a seasoned fan of South Indian cuisine or a curious food lover eager to explore authentic vegetarian dishes, this recipe will introduce you to delightful textures and aromatic spices that are signature to Karnataka’s kitchen.

Let’s dive into making this wholesome, soul-satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with hot steamed rice and a dollop of ghee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Avarekalu Saaru is a perfect blend of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors that awaken your palate with every bite. The use of fresh avarekalu beans adds a unique earthy sweetness and a satisfying bite that is both nutritious and delicious.

This recipe is ideal for vegetarians and vegans alike, showcasing the power of simple, fresh ingredients transformed by traditional cooking techniques.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a comforting everyday meal or served at festive gatherings to impress family and friends with authentic Karnataka flavors.

Plus, the recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep and common Indian pantry spices, making it accessible even for home cooks new to South Indian cuisine.

Ingredients

• Avarekalu (Hyacinth beans) – 2 cups (fresh or frozen, shelled)
• Tamarind pulp – 2 tablespoons (soaked in warm water)
• Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
• Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Coriander powder – 1 tablespoon
• Asafoetida (hing) – a pinch
• Salt – to taste
• Jaggery (optional) – 1 teaspoon (for mild sweetness)
• Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
• Dried red chilies – 2
• Curry leaves – 1 sprig
• Grated coconut – ½ cup (fresh or frozen)
• Green chilies – 2 (adjust to taste)
• Garlic cloves – 3
• Water – 3 to 4 cups (for cooking)
• Cooking oil – 2 tablespoons (preferably coconut or vegetable oil)

Equipment

• Pressure cooker or large pot
• Blender or wet grinder
• Deep pan or kadai for tempering
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the avarekalu: If using fresh avarekalu beans, shell them and rinse well. If frozen, thaw and rinse. Pressure cook the beans with 2 cups of water and a pinch of turmeric powder for 3-4 whistles or until soft but not mushy. Set aside.
2. Make the tamarind extract: Soak tamarind pulp in ½ cup warm water for 10 minutes. Extract the juice by squeezing and straining, discarding fibers and seeds. Keep this tamarind water ready.
3. Prepare the coconut spice paste: In a blender, combine grated coconut, green chilies, garlic cloves, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and a little water. Blend to a smooth paste. This base adds a rich texture and depth of flavor to the saaru.
4. Cook the saaru base: Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle. Then add dried red chilies, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the cooked avarekalu: Pour the cooked beans along with their cooking water into the pan. Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and the tamarind extract. Mix well and bring to a gentle boil.
6. Incorporate the coconut paste: Add the prepared coconut spice paste to the boiling mixture. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. Adjust water to achieve your preferred consistency—typically a medium-thick curry.
7. Simmer and balance flavors: Let the saaru simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes. Add jaggery if using, to balance the tanginess with a subtle sweetness. Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
8. Final tempering (optional): For extra flavor, you may prepare a final tempering with mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves in hot oil and pour it over the saaru just before serving.
9. Serve hot: Transfer the Avarekalu Saaru to a serving bowl. It pairs wonderfully with plain steamed rice or traditional Karnataka dishes.

Tips & Variations

“Fresh avarekalu beans are the star of this dish, but if unavailable, frozen or even dried beans can be used after proper soaking and cooking.”

• For a richer taste, add a tablespoon of ghee during the final tempering.
• To make this dish even more nutritious, add chopped spinach or fenugreek leaves along with the avarekalu.
• If you prefer a thinner consistency, increase the amount of water and adjust spices accordingly.
• For a vegan version, avoid ghee and use coconut oil instead.
• You can also add a handful of cooked toor dal (pigeon peas) for extra protein and texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Avarekalu Saaru shines when served hot with fluffy steamed basmati or sona masoori rice. For an authentic Karnataka meal, accompany it with a side of Half Runner Beans Recipe and a crisp cucumber salad.

Don’t forget a dollop of homemade ghee or a spoonful of curd (yogurt) to balance the tangy flavors of the saaru. If you’re in the mood for something sweet after, try the comforting Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.

For a fusion twist, pair this curry with roasted bread or try it alongside Indian breads such as chapati or naan. If you enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, you might also want to explore Green Goodness Juice Recipe for a refreshing complement.

Conclusion

Avarekalu Saaru is a wonderful representation of Karnataka’s vibrant vegetarian cuisine, offering a perfect harmony of spices, tanginess, and comforting textures. This humble yet flavorful curry showcases how seasonal ingredients like avarekalu beans can transform everyday meals into memorable culinary experiences.

Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a great addition to your home-cooked meal repertoire, especially if you enjoy exploring traditional Indian recipes.

Whether you are cooking for family or entertaining guests, this saaru promises to deliver wholesome nutrition and authentic flavors that celebrate the essence of Karnataka. So gather your ingredients, embrace the aromatic spices, and enjoy the journey of creating this delightful dish that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

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