Avarekalu, also known as hyacinth beans, are a beloved ingredient in South Indian cuisine. Their slightly nutty flavor and creamy texture make them perfect for a variety of vegetarian dishes that are both comforting and nutritious.
Whether fresh or dried, avarekalu add a unique charm to meals, making them a favorite during the winter season when they are most abundant. If you’re looking to explore traditional flavors or simply add a wholesome twist to your everyday meals, avarekalu veg recipes are a fantastic choice.
In this post, we’ll walk you through delightful ways to prepare avarekalu that will tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your soul. From simple stir-fries to rich, spiced curries, these recipes showcase the versatility of this humble legume.
Plus, if you love wholesome, home-cooked vegetarian meals, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into the world of avarekalu veg recipes and discover why they deserve a spot in your kitchen repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Avarekalu veg recipes are packed with flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. These dishes celebrate the earthy taste of hyacinth beans while incorporating aromatic spices that elevate the overall experience.
You’ll love how easy it is to prepare these recipes, even if you’re new to cooking with avarekalu.
Aside from being delicious, avarekalu beans are a great source of protein and dietary fiber, making them ideal for vegetarians and vegans. These recipes are also adaptable to various dietary needs and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or a special dish to impress guests, avarekalu veg recipes offer something for every occasion. Moreover, exploring these recipes connects you to traditional South Indian culinary heritage, adding authenticity and warmth to your dining table.
Ingredients
- Avarekalu (hyacinth beans) – 2 cups (fresh or soaked dried beans)
- Oil – 2 tablespoons (preferably coconut or vegetable oil)
- Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Urad dal (split black gram) – 1 teaspoon
- Chana dal (split Bengal gram) – 1 teaspoon
- Asafoetida (hing) – a pinch
- Dried red chilies – 2
- Green chilies – 2, finely chopped
- Ginger – 1-inch piece, finely chopped
- Curry leaves – 1 sprig
- Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
- Red chili powder – ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Grated coconut – ¼ cup (optional for garnish)
- Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl (for soaking beans)
- Pressure cooker or large pot
- Frying pan or skillet
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
- Prepare the avarekalu: If using dried avarekalu, soak them overnight in water. Drain and pressure cook with enough water and a pinch of salt for 3-4 whistles until soft but not mushy. If using fresh beans, shell and rinse them thoroughly.
- Heat oil: In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle.
- Add dals and spices: Add cumin seeds, urad dal, chana dal, dried red chilies, and asafoetida. Sauté until dals turn golden brown.
- Sauté aromatics: Add finely chopped green chilies, ginger, and curry leaves. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add turmeric and powders: Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Mix well and cook for 30 seconds.
- Cook the beans: Add the cooked avarekalu to the pan. Mix gently to coat the beans with the spices. Add salt to taste.
- Simmer: Cover and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle grated coconut and chopped fresh coriander leaves. Mix lightly and remove from heat.
Tips & Variations
For a richer flavor, try tempering with a teaspoon of ghee instead of oil.
You can add chopped tomatoes or tamarind paste for a tangy twist.
For a dry curry version, reduce the cooking time and avoid adding extra water after pressure cooking.
Try incorporating grated coconut into the curry for a traditional twist often enjoyed in Karnataka cuisine.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 10 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Dietary Fiber | 8 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Vitamin C | 6 mg |
Iron | 3 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Avarekalu vegetable dishes pair wonderfully with steamed rice or traditional South Indian breads like chapati or paratha. For a wholesome meal, serve alongside a cooling cucumber raita or a tangy tomato chutney.
They also make a delicious side for lentil-based dishes such as sambar or rasam. For something different, try serving avarekalu curry with a fragrant lemon rice or coconut rice for added zest.
If you love exploring vegetarian recipes, you might also enjoy our Half Runner Beans Recipe or the flavorful Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe.
Delicious Avarekalu Veg Recipes to Try
Avarekalu Usli (Spiced Hyacinth Bean Stir-Fry)
This simple yet aromatic stir-fry is a staple in many South Indian households. The beans are tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and fresh grated coconut for a delightful texture and flavor.
- Tip: Use freshly grated coconut for authenticity, or substitute with frozen grated coconut if fresh is unavailable.
Avarekalu Sambar (Hyacinth Bean Lentil Stew)
Sambar is a comforting lentil and vegetable stew. Adding avarekalu gives it a fresh twist and enhances the protein content.
This recipe uses tamarind pulp, mustard seeds, and sambar powder to create a tangy and spicy broth.
- Variation: You can substitute toor dal with moong dal for a lighter version.
Avarekalu Curry with Coconut Milk
A creamy and mildly spiced curry made with coconut milk, mustard seeds, and fresh spices. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or traditional Indian breads.
- Tip: Use fresh coconut milk for best taste, or canned coconut milk as a convenient alternative.
Avarekalu Sundal (Snack or Side Dish)
Sundal is a popular South Indian snack often prepared during festivals. The avarekalu beans are boiled and tossed with mustard seeds, curry leaves, grated coconut, and a sprinkle of asafoetida.
- Serving suggestion: Enjoy as a light snack or as an accompaniment to idli and dosa.
Conclusion
Avarekalu veg recipes offer a wonderful way to enjoy the nutritious and delicious hyacinth bean in various forms. These recipes are not only packed with flavor but also bring a comforting and wholesome touch to your meals.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these dishes are straightforward to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Incorporating avarekalu into your diet is a great way to diversify your protein sources while indulging in authentic South Indian flavors.
Ready to experiment with avarekalu? Try these recipes and share the joy of traditional cooking with your family and friends.
For more delightful recipe ideas, check out our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the sweet treat of the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Avarekalu Veg Curry
Description: A flavorful South Indian curry made with fresh avarekalu (hyacinth beans) and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish with rice or roti.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh avarekalu (hyacinth beans), shelled
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard and cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions and green chilies; sauté until onions turn translucent.
- Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Add turmeric, red chili, coriander powders, and salt; mix well.
- Add shelled avarekalu and stir to coat with spices.
- Pour 1 cup water, cover, and cook on medium heat for 20 minutes until beans are tender.
- Sprinkle garam masala and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 22 g
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