Chikkudukaya Vepudu Recipe – Broad Beans Masala Poriyal
Introduction:
Chikkudukaya Vepudu, also known as Broad Beans Masala Poriyal, is a beloved dish from the heart of Andhra cuisine. This simple yet aromatic dish features tender broad beans cooked with a combination of sautéed onions, garlic, ginger, and flavorful spices. It is a wholesome and vibrant side dish, perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner. The addition of fresh curry leaves enhances the flavor, while the masala blends harmoniously with the natural sweetness of the beans, making it an irresistible treat for the taste buds.
Perfect for those seeking a light, nutritious vegetarian dish, Chikkudukaya Vepudu pairs beautifully with rice, sambar, and a dollop of homemade yogurt for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Avarekai (Broad Beans) | 250 grams, cut into 1-inch pieces |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon (for cooking) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Instructions:
-
Preparation of Broad Beans:
Begin by washing and cutting the broad beans (Avarekai) into 1-inch pieces. Carefully remove any strings that may be attached to the beans. This ensures a smoother texture when cooked. -
Cooking the Beans:
In a pressure cooker, add the cut broad beans along with 2 tablespoons of water and a pinch of salt. Close the lid and cook for 1 whistle on medium heat. Immediately release the pressure to prevent overcooking the beans. This step helps retain the vibrant green color of the broad beans. -
Sautéing Aromatics and Spices:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a kadai (wok) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the curry leaves, chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté them until the onions turn translucent and soft, releasing their sweet aroma. -
Adding Spices:
Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and coriander powder. Stir the mixture well for about a minute, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the oil with their fragrance. -
Cooking the Tomatoes:
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and sauté until they become soft and mushy. This should take about 4-5 minutes, and the tomatoes will break down into a rich, flavorful base. -
Combining the Beans with Spices:
Once the tomatoes are well-cooked, add the pressure-cooked broad beans (Chikkudukaya) to the pan. Stir the mixture well to coat the beans with the flavorful masala. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to blend with the beans. -
Final Adjustments:
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or spices if needed. Stir the masala evenly and let the beans absorb the flavors. -
Serving:
Once the Chikkudukaya Vepudu is perfectly cooked, turn off the heat and transfer the dish to a serving bowl. Serve hot with steamed rice, Keerai Sambar, Vadu Mangai Pickle, and a side of homemade yogurt for a complete and wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Chikkudukaya Vepudu is traditionally served as a side dish with rice and dal (sambar). However, it can also be enjoyed with chapati or roti for a lighter option. For an extra touch of authenticity, pair this dish with a tangy pickle like Vadu Mangai, and a dollop of cool homemade yogurt to balance the spiciness.
Tips for Success:
- Color Retention: To retain the bright green color of the broad beans, it is crucial to release the pressure from the pressure cooker immediately after cooking. This helps the beans stay vibrant and avoids overcooking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder based on your spice tolerance. You can also add a pinch of garam masala or cumin powder for an additional layer of flavor.
- Serving Variation: For a more substantial meal, serve this dish alongside a simple vegetable curry or fried rice.
Chikkudukaya Vepudu brings together the earthy flavor of broad beans with the aromatic spices of Andhra cuisine, creating a dish that’s both healthy and packed with taste. Enjoy this delightful recipe at your next lunch or dinner, and savor the vibrant flavors of Andhra Pradesh in every bite!
