Chettinad Beans & Cauliflower Poriyal Recipe (South Indian Stir Fry)
The Chettinad Beans & Cauliflower Poriyal is a vibrant, nutritious South Indian stir fry that offers a delightful combination of flavors. With its subtle yet aromatic seasoning, this dish highlights the natural taste of cauliflower and green beans, brought together with the rich spices characteristic of Chettinad cuisine. Light and healthy, this vegetable stir fry can be enjoyed as a salad or paired with a bowl of yogurt for a satisfying light dinner. Traditionally, it is served as a side dish alongside sambar or kuzhambu, making it an ideal addition to a South Indian lunch or dinner.
Cuisine:
Chettinad (South Indian)
Course:
Lunch
Diet:
Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (gobi), cut into florets | 1 medium-sized head |
| Green beans (French Beans), finely chopped | 200 grams |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sesame (Gingelly) oil | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Instructions
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Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and chopping the green beans finely.
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Steam the Vegetables: In a steamer, steam the cauliflower and green beans with a pinch of salt until they are just tender. Be careful not to oversteam the vegetables as we want them to retain their texture and not become mushy.
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Heat the Seasoning: Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the sesame oil and let it warm up. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter, which should take about a minute.
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Add the Dal and Spices: To the mustard seeds, add the white urad dal. Let it cook until the dal turns golden brown. Stir in the curry leaves, red chili powder, and turmeric powder. Allow the spices to cook for another minute, releasing their aromas.
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Combine the Steamed Vegetables: Add the steamed cauliflower and green beans to the pan. Toss them well in the seasoning to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
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Final Toss and Serve: Sauté the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavors of the seasoning. Taste and adjust the salt and spices as needed.
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Serving Suggestion: Serve the Chettinad Beans & Cauliflower Poriyal as a side dish with Drumstick Sambar, steamed rice, and crispy Appalam for a traditional South Indian lunch. Alternatively, enjoy it on its own with a bowl of yogurt for a light and healthy dinner.
This Chettinad-style stir fry is an excellent way to bring the flavors of South India to your table. Simple yet packed with spices, it offers a light yet flavorful experience.
