Kerala Avial Recipe
Kerala Avial is a traditional dish from the southern part of India, specifically from the state of Kerala. Known for its rich, creamy texture and combination of various vegetables, this dish is a true celebration of flavors. It’s made with a mix of seasonal vegetables, coconut, and curry leaves, bringing together a delightful harmony of tastes. Perfect as a side dish, it pairs beautifully with rice or as part of a Kerala-style sadhya meal. Follow this detailed recipe to make your very own Kerala Avial.
Ingredients for Kerala Avial
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ash Gourd (also known as white pumpkin) | 250 grams |
| Drumsticks (Moringa pods) | 2 sticks |
| Carrots | 2 medium-sized |
| Green Beans | 10 beans |
| Raw Banana (Plantain) | 1, peeled and chopped |
| Potatoes | 2 medium-sized, peeled and chopped |
| Yam | 250 grams, peeled and chopped |
| Grated Coconut | 1 1/2 cups |
| Green Chilies | 3 whole |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Coconut Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Kerala
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by preparing all the vegetables. Peel, chop, and slice the vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking. Once everything is ready, place the vegetables in a pressure cooker. Add salt to taste and 1/4 cup of water to the cooker. Close the lid and cook the vegetables on medium heat until the cooker gives two whistles. After two whistles, lower the heat and allow it to cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Then, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Once done, open the cooker and set the cooked vegetables aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Mixture
While the vegetables are cooking, take a mixer grinder and add grated coconut, green chilies, cumin seeds, and curry leaves to it. Add a little warm water to help grind the mixture into a smooth paste. This coconut paste is what gives Kerala Avial its signature flavor and richness.
Step 3: Combine the Coconut Paste with Vegetables
Add the freshly ground coconut paste to the cooked vegetables. Mix well so that the paste blends thoroughly with the vegetables. Add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and a pinch of salt if needed. Stir everything gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the coconut mixture.
Step 4: Serve
Once your Kerala Avial is ready, transfer it to a serving dish. The creamy texture of the coconut mixture combined with the earthy flavors of the vegetables makes this dish a perfect complement to rice or a Kerala-style sadhya. Serve it hot with a side of sambar and rice for a wholesome meal.
Enjoy the flavors of Kerala in every bite of this wholesome and nutritious dish!
