Broad beans, also known as fava beans, are a beloved legume in Indian cuisine, particularly in vegetarian dishes that burst with flavor and nutrition. This broad beans curry is a delightful vegetable recipe from India, combining the earthy taste of broad beans with aromatic spices to create a wholesome and comforting meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious food enthusiast, this recipe offers an easy way to enjoy the vibrant tastes of Indian home cooking. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, the curry packs protein, fiber, and a rich blend of spices that awaken your palate.
Let’s dive into this traditional yet simple recipe that showcases how a humble vegetable can be transformed into a delicious curry worthy of any feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This broad beans curry recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. The unique texture of broad beans combined with the warmth of Indian spices makes this curry hearty and satisfying.
Health-conscious eaters will appreciate the high protein content and fiber, while vegetarians and vegans will love it as a wholesome main or side dish.
It’s also incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit mild or spicy preferences. Plus, the recipe uses everyday ingredients found in most Indian kitchens, making it accessible and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broad beans (fava beans), shelled and peeled
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil preferred)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
Equipment
- Large saucepan or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Colander or sieve (for rinsing beans)
- Mixing bowl
Instructions
- Prepare the broad beans: Shell the broad beans and remove the tough outer skins. Rinse them well under running water and set aside.
- Heat the oil: In a large saucepan, warm the oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Sauté the onions: Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. This step enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor in the curry.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
- Cook the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate from the masala mixture.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder (if using), and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes to roast the spices.
- Add broad beans: Toss in the prepared broad beans and stir to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Simmer the curry: Pour in half a cup of water, cover the pan, and let the curry simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the broad beans are tender and cooked through.
- Finish with garam masala: Sprinkle the garam masala and mix gently. Cook uncovered for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat, squeeze in fresh lemon juice if desired, and garnish with chopped coriander leaves before serving.
Tips & Variations
For a creamier texture, add a couple of tablespoons of coconut milk or cashew paste towards the end of cooking.
Fresh broad beans are ideal, but if unavailable, frozen broad beans can be used. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
You can add other vegetables like potatoes or carrots to bulk up the curry and add more texture.
If you prefer a spicier curry, increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of black pepper.
Some regional variations include adding a pinch of asafoetida or using mustard seeds instead of cumin for tempering.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This broad beans curry is best enjoyed hot with steamed basmati rice or Indian flatbreads like roti or naan. For a complete meal, pair it with a cooling cucumber raita or a tangy salad.
If you love exploring other Indian vegetarian dishes, you might enjoy our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or try a comforting Muthiya Kadhi Recipe for more traditional flavors.
For a protein-packed twist, serve alongside grilled meats such as those in our Lamb Tenderloin Recipes.
Conclusion
Broad beans curry is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish full of flavor, nutrition, and comfort. This Indian vegetable curry is easy to prepare, adaptable to individual tastes, and perfect for any season.
Whether you’re new to cooking Indian cuisine or looking to expand your repertoire of vegetarian dishes, this recipe is a must-try. It showcases the versatility of broad beans and the magic of Indian spices, delivering a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Give it a try today and experience the rich culinary heritage of India right in your own kitchen.
📖 Recipe Card: Broad Beans Curry
Description: A flavorful Indian vegetarian curry made with fresh broad beans and aromatic spices. This dish is nutritious and perfect as a side or main accompaniment with rice or roti.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broad beans (fresh or frozen), shelled
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.
- Mix turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt; cook for 2 minutes.
- Add broad beans and stir well to coat with spices.
- Pour water, cover, and simmer 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: 20 g
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