Kerala Style Karamani Thoran Recipe – Yard Long Beans Stir Fry with Coconut
If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your side dish repertoire, the Kerala Style Karamani Thoran (Yard Long Beans Stir Fry with Coconut) is a dish that will surely excite your taste buds. This traditional Kerala recipe features yard long beans, locally known as Karamani or Chawli beans, cooked with aromatic spices and fresh coconut, creating a fragrant, healthy, and satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with rice and sambar.
Karamani Thoran is an essential part of the Kerala cuisine, especially in everyday meals. With its combination of tender beans, a dash of mustard seeds, cumin, and a generous amount of freshly grated coconut, this dish brings the unique flavors of South India right to your table. Let’s explore how to make this quick and easy yet flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Chawli Beans (Yard long beans/Karamani/Barbati) – chopped | 300 grams |
| Coconut Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 8 leaves |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coconut – grated | 1/4 cup |
| Green Chillies | 2 |
| Curry Leaves (sprigs) | 2 sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~80 |
| Carbohydrates | ~12g |
| Protein | ~2g |
| Fat | ~4g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~100mg |
| Calcium | ~25mg |
| Iron | ~1mg |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4 people
Cuisine:
- Kerala Recipes (South Indian)
Course:
- Side Dish
Diet:
- Vegetarian
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Coconut Paste
- To begin making the Kerala Style Karamani Thoran, start by preparing the coconut paste. In a mixer grinder, combine grated fresh coconut, green chillies, curry leaves, and salt. Blend these ingredients into a coarse paste. The texture should remain slightly gritty, so don’t overblend it. Set the mixture aside for later.
Step 2: Tempering the Spices
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Heat coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter and crackle, which releases their aromatic flavors.
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As the seeds begin to pop, toss in the curry leaves. The curry leaves will sizzle in the hot oil and infuse the oil with their fragrance.
Step 3: Cooking the Yard Long Beans
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Add the chopped yard beans (Karamani) into the pan and stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes. The beans should begin to soften but retain a slight crunch.
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Next, add the ground coconut paste to the pan. Stir well to coat the beans evenly with the coconut mixture. The coconut will add creaminess and richness, balancing the subtle heat from the green chillies.
Step 4: Final Seasoning
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Sprinkle turmeric powder (Haldi) over the beans and give everything a good stir. The turmeric not only adds color but also a warm, earthy flavor to the dish. Adjust the salt to your taste and stir the mixture again.
-
Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together and the beans to cook through. Be careful not to overcook them, as you want them to remain slightly crisp and tender.
Step 5: Serving
- Once the Kerala Style Karamani Thoran is ready, remove from heat and serve it warm. It makes an excellent accompaniment to Mixed Vegetable Sambar, Steamed Rice, and South Indian Papad for a hearty and traditional Kerala meal.
Serving Suggestions:
This vibrant Yard Long Beans Stir Fry with Coconut is a delightful side dish that complements a variety of main dishes. Pair it with any classic Kerala meal such as:
- Sambar – A spicy lentil-based vegetable stew
- Steamed Rice – The perfect base to soak up the flavors of the stir fry
- South Indian Papad – A crispy, savory accompaniment that adds crunch to every bite
Whether you’re enjoying a traditional Kerala feast or simply craving a light, healthy side dish, the Kerala Style Karamani Thoran is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of preparation time, this dish comes together effortlessly.
- Full of Flavor: The fresh coconut and spices infuse the beans with irresistible aromas and flavors.
- Healthy: Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, this dish is a nutritious addition to any meal.
- Vegetarian and Gluten-Free: This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and those following a gluten-free diet.
So next time you’re in the mood for a flavorful, comforting side dish, give the Kerala Style Karamani Thoran a try. It’s a simple yet soul-satisfying recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of Kerala right into your kitchen.
Tips for the Perfect Karamani Thoran:
- Consistency of Coconut Paste: Make sure the coconut paste is coarse, as this enhances the texture of the dish. It should not be too smooth or too dry.
- Beans: Yard long beans can sometimes be tough, so ensure they are tender but still crunchy after cooking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chillies depending on your heat preference. You can also add a pinch of red chilli powder for an extra kick.
Enjoy the rich and authentic flavors of Kerala with this delightful Yard Long Beans Stir Fry with Coconut!
