Konkani Style Alasande Randayi Recipe: Black Eyed Beans and Yam Gravy
Indulge in the flavors of the Konkan coast with this delightful Konkani Style Alasande Randayi, a rich and hearty dish featuring black-eyed beans and yam simmered in a flavorful gravy. This vegetarian delicacy is perfect for lunch and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or crispy ghee roast dosas. Its unique combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes it a beloved recipe in many households. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create this traditional dish that serves not just as a meal but also as a warm hug for your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black Eyed Beans (Lobia) | 1 cup (soaked for 2 hours in water) |
| Elephant Yam (Suran/Senai/Ratalu) | 1 cup (cut into small pieces) |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry Red Chili | 2 |
| Tamarind | 18 grams |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 4 tablespoons |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch |
| Sunflower Oil | For cooking |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 280 |
| Protein | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 8 grams |
| Total Fat | 8 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 150 minutes (including soaking time)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 180 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
-
Preparation of Ingredients:
Begin by soaking the black-eyed beans (lobia) in water for about two hours. This softens them and reduces cooking time, ensuring they blend well with the yam and spices in the gravy. -
-
Roasting Spices:
In a small skillet, dry roast the coriander seeds until they are fragrant. This step enhances their flavor. Once roasted, transfer the seeds to a mixer or grinder. -
Grinding the Paste:
To the mixer, add the grated coconut, dry red chilies, and tamarind. Blend these ingredients into a smooth mixture, adding a little water if necessary. This aromatic paste will form the base of your gravy. -
Cooking in Pressure Cooker:
Heat sunflower oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle for about two seconds. Next, add the curry leaves and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). The sizzling sound of these ingredients will create a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen. -
Combining Ingredients:
Immediately add the ground paste to the cooker along with a teaspoon of turmeric powder and the jaggery. Sauté this mixture for about two minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. -
Adding Vegetables:
Once the paste is sautéed, add the chopped elephant yam and the soaked black-eyed beans to the mixture. Season with salt to taste, ensuring that the flavors are balanced. -
Pressure Cooking:
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the mixture on high heat for about three whistles. After three whistles, switch off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. This step ensures that the beans and yam are perfectly cooked and infused with the spices. -
Serving:
Once all the pressure is released, open the lid and give the gravy a gentle stir. The Konkani Style Alasande Randayi is now ready to be served. Enjoy it with steaming hot rice or alongside crispy ghee roast dosas for a complete meal experience.
Tips for the Perfect Dish
- Soaking Beans: Ensure the black-eyed beans are adequately soaked to achieve the right texture. If you forget to soak them, you can pressure cook them for longer, but soaking is always recommended.
- Choosing Yam: When selecting elephant yam, opt for firm pieces without blemishes. This ensures a tender and delicious outcome.
- Adjusting Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of jaggery and tamarind based on your taste preference. The balance of sweet and tangy is key to this dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Sukka (a dry coconut dish) or can be served with roti or chapati for a wholesome meal.
Conclusion
The Konkani Style Alasande Randayi is not merely a recipe; it’s a celebration of the rich culinary traditions of the Konkan coast, offering a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, this dish is straightforward yet rewarding, making it a must-try for anyone looking to expand their culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aromas of this delectable dish waft through your kitchen, creating a memorable meal for you and your loved ones. Enjoy every bite of this hearty, flavorful, and wholesome dish that truly embodies the spirit of home cooking.
