Aavryachi Bhaji (Avarakkai Poriyal) – Broad Beans Stir Fry Recipe
This delicious and nutritious dish, Aavryachi Bhaji (or Avarakkai Poriyal in Tamil), is a simple stir-fry made with Broad Beans (Avarekai), seasoned with the perfect blend of spices, coconut, and jaggery. It’s a traditional North Karnataka recipe that is perfect for a wholesome, high-protein vegetarian meal. The delicate flavors of coconut, green chilies, and the hint of sweetness from jaggery elevate the dish to make it a delightful side for any Indian meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Avarekai (Broad Beans) | 3 cups (chopped) |
| Onion | 1 medium (chopped) |
| Fresh Coconut | 2 tablespoons (grated) |
| Green Chili | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Jaggery | 1 teaspoon (grated) |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/4 of the recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 kcal |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fats | 2.5 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 45 mg |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broad Beans
To start making the Aavryachi Bhaji, the first step is to steam the broad beans (avarekai). Wash the chopped beans thoroughly, ensuring they are free of dirt or any other debris. Once cleaned, place the beans in a steamer basket and steam them for about 5 minutes or until they become tender but still firm. The steaming process helps preserve the nutrients of the beans while making them tender enough for stir-frying.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, heat the sunflower oil in a kadai (Indian wok) or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft, translucent, and slightly pinkish. This should take about 3–4 minutes.
As the onions cook, they release a natural sweetness that will complement the savory and slightly bitter flavor of the beans, making it an important step in building flavor for the stir fry.
Step 3: Add the Spices and Beans
Once the onions are cooked, add the finely chopped green chili for a hint of heat and aroma. Stir it into the onions and let it cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add the steamed broad beans to the pan, and stir well to mix the beans with the onions and chilies.
Step 4: Flavor the Dish
Now, it’s time to add the finishing touches to this stir-fry. Sprinkle in the grated fresh coconut, which adds a rich, creamy texture and a tropical flavor. Then, add the grated jaggery, which balances the slight bitterness of the beans and onions with a touch of natural sweetness. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
To enhance the aroma and depth of flavor, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Asafoetida is commonly used in South Indian cooking and adds a subtle umami flavor that deepens the overall taste of the dish.
Step 5: Final Stir and Adjust Seasoning
Stir the mixture for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the coconut and jaggery to integrate well with the beans. Taste the stir-fry and add salt as per your preference. Give everything a final toss and turn off the heat.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Aavryachi Bhaji (Broad Beans Stir Fry) is now ready to be served! This simple, yet flavorful dish can be enjoyed as part of a traditional North Karnataka meal. It pairs wonderfully with a bowl of Mixed Vegetable Sambar and steamed Rice, and a dollop of ghee on the side adds richness and depth to the meal.
This dish is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, offering a good amount of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It’s the perfect choice for a wholesome, light dinner or as a side dish for a larger meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Rice & Sambar: Serve this stir-fry alongside a hearty bowl of Mixed Vegetable Sambar and steamed Rice. The tangy, spicy sambar complements the mild flavors of the beans and coconut perfectly.
- With Chapati: If you prefer a low-carb option, enjoy the stir-fry with a warm Chapati or any other Indian flatbread.
- Add Ghee: A dollop of ghee on top of the stir-fry enhances its richness and flavor, making it a comforting meal.
- As a Side Dish: This dish is a great accompaniment to any South Indian thali, adding a burst of flavors and textures.
Tips:
- Spice Level: If you like your stir-fry spicier, feel free to increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of red chili powder to the mix.
- Sweetness: Adjust the jaggery to suit your taste. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dish, you can increase the amount of jaggery. Alternatively, you can use coconut sugar or brown sugar as a substitute for jaggery.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan variation, simply omit the ghee when serving, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly, high-protein dish.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
- High Protein: Broad beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this dish a perfect choice for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more protein into their meals.
- Flavorful & Nutritious: The combination of spices, coconut, and jaggery makes this stir-fry not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients.
- Versatile: This stir-fry can be served with a variety of dishes, from rice to chapati, and is easily adaptable to suit your taste.
Enjoy the wholesome goodness of Aavryachi Bhaji—a perfect dish for anyone looking to savor the authentic flavors of North Karnataka!
