Beans Vepudu Recipe (Andhra Style Beans Cooked with Spicy Sesame Spice Mix)
Beans Vepudu, a flavorful side dish from Andhra Pradesh, showcases the simple elegance of green beans infused with a tantalizing, mildly spicy sesame and coconut mix. This dish is characterized by the rich, nutty flavor of sesame seeds combined with aromatic spices, bringing out an exquisite blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Served alongside steamed rice or sambar, this vegetarian delight offers a perfect balance of heat and fragrance. Prepare this Beans Vepudu for a delightful addition to any meal!
Ingredients for Beans Vepudu
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green beans (French Beans) | 500 grams, cut into 1/2 inch pieces |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Spice Mix (To dry roast and grind):
| Spices | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sesame seeds (Til seeds) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh coconut, grated | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Red chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 3-4 people
Instructions for Beans Vepudu
-
Prepare the Green Beans:
- Begin by cleaning, washing, and cutting the green beans (French beans) into 1/2 inch pieces. Set them aside.
-
Prepare the Spice Mix:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, dry roast the sesame seeds, fresh coconut, garlic, and cumin seeds separately. Stir continuously to ensure they don’t burn. Once each ingredient is roasted, allow it to cool slightly.
- Once cooled, transfer the roasted ingredients into a grinder and grind them into a fine powder. Set this spice mix aside.
-
Cook the Beans:
- In the same pan, heat 2 teaspoons of oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the curry leaves and sauté until they crackle, releasing their fragrance.
- Toss in the chopped green beans and turmeric powder. Stir to combine and sauté for a few minutes, letting the beans cook partially (about 3/4 cooked) with the lid on. This should take approximately 10 minutes.
-
Combine the Beans with Spice Mix:
- Once the beans are almost cooked, add the freshly ground spice mix to the pan along with salt. Mix everything well to coat the beans with the aromatic spices.
- Sauté the beans for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the beans to cook fully.
-
Final Touches:
- Once the beans are cooked and tender, turn off the flame. The Beans Vepudu is now ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions:
-
Serve your Beans Vepudu alongside Mixed Vegetable Sambar and Steamed Rice for a comforting, wholesome meal. The vibrant flavors of the beans perfectly complement the tangy sambar and soft rice, making for a delicious and satisfying dinner.
-
You can also serve this dish as part of a larger Andhra-style meal, alongside other traditional dishes like Chapati or Pulao.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
Tips and Variations:
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For Extra Flavor: You can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) when tempering the mustard seeds for an added depth of flavor.
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Add a Tangy Twist: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can brighten up the dish and give it a tangy finish.
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For a More Spicy Version: If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste.
Beans Vepudu is not only delicious but also easy to make, with its wholesome ingredients and fresh flavors. It brings the essence of Andhra cuisine into your kitchen, offering a healthy, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. Enjoy!
