Konkani Style Alasande Randayi Recipe – Black Eyed Beans and Yam Gravy
Konkani cuisine, known for its rich and flavorful coconut-based gravies, offers a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors in every dish. One such delightful recipe is the Konkani Style Alasande Randayi, which combines the wholesome goodness of black-eyed beans (lobia) and elephant yam (suran or senai) in a luscious coconut gravy. This comforting curry is not only delicious but also packed with flavors thanks to the freshly ground spices and the generous use of fresh coconut. It is a must-try dish for those who love authentic Konkani flavors and enjoy the rich combination of tangy tamarind, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut.
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | 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 |
| Ingredients to Roast and Grind | |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry Red Chilli | 2 pieces |
| Tamarind | 18 grams |
| Fresh coconut | 4 tablespoons (Grated) |
| To Temper | |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch |
| Oil | For cooking |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 kcal |
| Protein | 6-7g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-5
Instructions:
-
Soak the Beans: Start by soaking the black-eyed beans (lobia) in water for about 2 hours. This helps soften them, reducing the cooking time.
-
Roast the Spices: In a small skillet, dry roast the coriander seeds over low heat until they release a fragrant aroma. Set aside to cool slightly.
-
Grind the Coconut Paste: In a mixer or grinder, add the roasted coriander seeds, dry red chilies, tamarind, and grated fresh coconut. Grind this mixture into a smooth paste, adding a little water if needed.
-
Temper the Spices: Heat oil in a pressure cooker. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle for 2-3 seconds. Immediately add the curry leaves and asafoetida (hing), letting them sizzle.
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Prepare the Gravy Base: Add the ground coconut-spice paste to the pressure cooker along with a teaspoon of turmeric powder and jaggery. Stir well to combine, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the raw aroma of the spices disappears.
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Cook the Yam and Beans: Add the chopped elephant yam (suran) pieces and the soaked black-eyed beans to the pressure cooker. Season with salt, and mix everything well. Add a bit of water if needed to ensure there is enough liquid to form a gravy.
-
Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook for about 3 whistles. After the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. This ensures the curry remains soft and flavorful.
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Final Touches: Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and stir the curry. Check the seasoning and adjust salt and jaggery if needed.
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Serve: Serve the Konkani Style Alasande Randayi hot with a side of Sukka (dry spicy dish), steamed rice, or Homemade Crispy Ghee Roast Dosas for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Tamarind Substitute: If tamarind is not available, you can substitute it with kokum or lemon juice for tanginess.
- Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, but for a richer texture, you can add a little coconut milk instead of water while grinding the paste.
- Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of dry red chilies according to your spice preference. You can also add green chilies for extra heat.
- Serving Suggestions: This curry pairs wonderfully with chapati, poori, or even as a side to your favorite bread.
The Konkani Style Alasande Randayi is an aromatic, flavorful curry that captures the essence of coastal Konkani cuisine. The combination of earthy black-eyed beans, starchy yam, and coconut-based gravy makes it a wholesome and comforting dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or dinner, it’s the perfect choice for any occasion when you crave something hearty and flavorful!
