Avarekalu Kadubu Recipe (Hyacinth Beans Steamed Dumplings)
If you find yourself stuck in the routine of the same old breakfast options like muesli, sandwiches, idli, dosa, or poha, then it’s time to spice things up with this delicious North Karnataka-style breakfast โ Avarekalu Kadubu, also known as Hyacinth Beans Steamed Dumplings. This dish is not only an exotic treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious powerhouse, perfect for a healthy start to the day.
What Are Avarekalu (Hyacinth Beans)?
Avarekalu, or Lilva beans, are a staple in the Karnataka region of India and are packed with essential nutrients. Rich in calcium and iron, these beans provide a natural source of energy while keeping your bones and blood healthy. When combined with rice rava, spices, and steamed into delightful dumplings, these beans create a truly satisfying and flavorful breakfast dish.
Why You Should Try Avarekalu Kadubu
Avarekalu Kadubu is a savory, spicy, and hearty breakfast or snack option. The soft, steamed dumplings are perfectly spiced with green chilies and cumin seeds, while the rice rava adds a subtle crumbly texture. The best part? Itโs a wonderfully healthy dish thatโs easy to make, and perfect to enjoy with a side of South Indian Coconut Chutney and a steaming cup of South Indian Filter Coffee. These steamed dumplings can also be served as a wholesome after-school snack for kids, ensuring they get their daily dose of healthy beans.
Cuisine: Karnataka
Course: South Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Avarekalu Kadubu
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice Rava | 1 cup |
| Avarekalu (Lilva Beans), boiled | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chillies, finely chopped | 1 |
| Curry Leaves, finely chopped | 1 sprig |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
| Time | 15 minutes |
Cooking Time
| Time | 10 minutes |
Instructions for Preparing Avarekalu Kadubu
-
Roast the Rice Rava:
Begin by heating a kadai (pan) on medium heat. Add the rice rava and dry roast it for about 5 minutes or until it becomes fragrant. Once done, remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Set it aside. -
Boil the Hyacinth Beans:
In a saucepan, boil the Avarekalu (Lilva beans) in water, adding a pinch of salt. Let them cook for around 10 minutes or until they are tender but not mushy. Avoid using a pressure cooker for this step, as it can make the beans too soft. After boiling, drain the beans and set them aside on a plate to cool. -
Prepare the Steamer:
While the beans are cooling, set up an idli steamer or a similar steamer. Add 1 cup of water to the base of the steamer and bring it to a boil over medium heat. -
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry roasted rice rava, boiled avarekalu, chopped green chilies, curry leaves, and cumin seeds. Add salt to taste. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of spices and flavors. -
Form the Mixture:
Gradually add 1/2 cup of lukewarm water (you can use the stock from boiling the hyacinth beans for added flavor) to the mixture. Stir it well until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds its shape when pressed tightly between your fingers and palm. -
Shape the Kadubu Dumplings:
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, shaping them into Kadubu (dumplings). Repeat this process until all the mixture is shaped into small balls. -
Steam the Kadubu:
Place the formed Kadubu into the steamer, making sure they are not crowded and have some space to expand while steaming. Cover the steamer with a lid and steam the dumplings on medium-high heat for about 8 minutes or until they become firm and fully cooked. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the Avarekalu Kadubu is steamed to perfection, remove them from the steamer. Serve them hot with South Indian Coconut Chutney and a steaming cup of South Indian Filter Coffee for a perfect breakfast experience. These dumplings are also great as an after-school snack for kids.
Tips for Making the Perfect Avarekalu Kadubu
- Texture: The rice rava should be dry roasted just enough to bring out its aroma. If over-roasted, it might change the texture of the dumplings.
- Consistency: If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little more water, but it should still hold its shape when pressed.
- Steam Properly: Ensure the steamer is at the right temperature before adding the dumplings. The heat should be consistent to ensure the Kadubu cook evenly.
Nutritional Benefits of Avarekalu Kadubu
- High in Iron and Calcium: The hyacinth beans (avarekalu) are an excellent source of iron and calcium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones and boosting energy levels.
- Rich in Fiber: The rice rava provides fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.
- Protein-Rich: This dish is packed with plant-based protein, making it a great choice for vegetarians.
Why You’ll Love Avarekalu Kadubu
Avarekalu Kadubu is a delightful combination of simplicity and nutrition. The steamed dumplings are soft and flavorful, with the spiciness of green chilies balanced by the earthy taste of the hyacinth beans. It’s an easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, and itโs especially perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack.
The wonderful texture and aroma of these Kadubu make them a standout in any breakfast spread. Pair them with South Indian Coconut Chutney and Filter Coffee for an authentic, satisfying South Indian meal.
Final Thoughts
Avarekalu Kadubu is more than just a delicious breakfast dishโit’s a healthy and comforting start to your day. The combination of rice rava, hyacinth beans, and aromatic spices makes for a filling and nutritious meal that will keep you energized for hours. Whether youโre serving it for breakfast or as a snack for the kids, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time.
So, next time you’re looking for something new to try, give Avarekalu Kadubu a go!
