Hyacinth Beans Steamed Dumplings (Avarekalu Kadubu) – Karnataka Breakfast Delight

Avarekalu Kadubu (Hyacinth Beans Steamed Dumplings)

Avarekalu Kadubu, also known as Hyacinth Beans Steamed Dumplings, is a delightful dish from Karnataka, a state known for its rich culinary traditions. This recipe combines the goodness of rice rava and hyacinth beans (also called avarekalu or lilva beans) to create a flavorful and healthy steamed dumpling. It’s a popular South Indian breakfast item, and its comforting flavors make it a great snack for kids after school or a quick and wholesome meal to start your day.

The preparation involves simple ingredients like rice rava, boiled hyacinth beans, curry leaves, green chilies, and cumin seeds, all coming together in a healthy and savory form. This recipe is completely vegetarian, easy to make, and full of nutrients.

Ingredients

Preparation Time

Instructions

1. Dry Roast the Rice Rava
   Begin by taking a kadai (a deep pan or wok) and dry roast the rice rava on medium heat for about 5 minutes or until it becomes fragrant. This step will enhance the flavor and texture of the rice rava. Once done, transfer it to a bowl and set aside to cool.

2. Cook the Hyacinth Beans
   In a saucepan, add the hyacinth beans along with a pinch of salt and enough water to cover them. Bring the beans to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes or until they are fully cooked. Be careful not to use a pressure cooker as it can cause the beans to become mushy. Cooking in a saucepan ensures that the beans retain their shape. Once cooked, drain the beans and set them aside on a plate to cool.

3. Prepare the Kadubu Mixture
   In a bowl, combine the dry roasted rice rava, boiled hyacinth beans, finely chopped curry leaves, green chilies, and cumin seeds. Add salt to taste. Mix all the ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

4. Add Water and Form the Mixture
   Slowly add 1/2 cup of lukewarm water to the mixture (you can use the leftover water from boiling the hyacinth beans for extra flavor). Mix until the mixture becomes slightly crumbly but still holds its shape when pressed tightly between your fingers and palms. Adjust the water as needed to achieve the right consistency.

5. Shape the Kadubu Dumplings
   Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small round balls or dumplings (kadubu). Ensure that the dumplings are firm and compact, but not too wet or dry. You can form about 6-8 small dumplings from the mixture.

6. Steam the Kadubu
   Place the kadubu into a steaming basket or idli steamer. Add 1 cup of water to the base of the steamer and bring it to a medium heat. Close the lid and steam the dumplings for about 8 minutes on medium-high heat or until they are firm and fully cooked. The kadubu should be firm to the touch when done.

7. Serve
   Once steamed, remove the kadubu from the steamer and serve hot. These Hyacinth Beans Steamed Dumplings pair beautifully with a side of South Indian coconut chutney and can be enjoyed with a cup of South Indian filter coffee for a traditional breakfast experience. They can also make a satisfying after-school snack for kids.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coconut Chutney: The Avarekalu Kadubu tastes especially delightful when paired with South Indian coconut chutney, offering a perfect balance of flavors with the dumplings.
• South Indian Filter Coffee: For an authentic South Indian breakfast, enjoy these kadubu with a refreshing cup of South Indian filter coffee.
• As a Snack: These steamed dumplings can also be served as an after-school snack for children. They’re healthy, filling, and a great alternative to processed snacks.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Avarekalu Kadubu is a fantastic example of traditional South Indian cooking, with simple ingredients that come together to create a healthy, flavorful dish. Whether for breakfast or a snack, this dish will surely win your taste buds and make a great addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of Hyacinth Beans Steamed Dumplings!