Beans Matki Bhaji Recipe – Green Beans and Moth Beans Sabzi
Description
Beans Matki Bhaji is a delightful and simple Maharashtrian-style dry sabzi (vegetable dish) that combines the goodness of green beans (French beans) with sprouted moth beans (matki). This humble dish is made with a set of traditional spices, including goda masala, amchur (dry mango powder), and jaggery, adding a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness. The dish is often made with kokum (Malabar tamarind) to enhance the tangy flavor, but if kokum is unavailable, amchur powder serves as a great alternative. Beans Matki Bhaji is ideal for lunch, offering a nutritious, vegetarian meal that is both light and flavorful.
Cuisine: Maharashtrian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Beans (French Beans), chopped | 250 grams |
| Moth Dal (Matki), sprouted | 1 cup |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1 tablespoon (or 2 Kokum for tanginess) |
| Jaggery, grated | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Maharashtrian Goda Masala | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Coconut, grated | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Instructions
-
Cook the Moth Beans
Begin by pressure cooking the sprouted moth beans in 2 cups of water. Cook them for 4 to 5 whistles, then turn off the heat. Let the pressure release naturally. Once done, remove the moth beans from the pressure cooker and set them aside. -
Cook the Green Beans
In the same pressure cooker, add the chopped green beans along with a pinch of salt and 2 tablespoons of water. Pressure cook for 2 whistles and turn off the heat immediately. Release the pressure right away to retain the bright green color of the beans. Set the green beans aside. -
Prepare the Tempering
Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds, letting them crackle. Add asafoetida, curry leaves, turmeric powder, goda masala, amchur powder (or kokum if using), and red chili powder. Sauté the mixture for a few seconds until the spices release their aroma. -
Combine the Beans and Seasonings
Add the cooked green beans and moth beans to the pan. Stir in the grated jaggery and adjust the salt according to taste. If you are using kokum, add it now. Mix everything together gently. -
Steam Cook
Cover the pan and cook everything on low heat for about 3 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Once done, remove from the heat. -
Finish with Coconut
Stir in the freshly grated coconut and taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. -
Serve
Transfer the Beans Matki Bhaji to a serving bowl and serve hot.
Serving Suggestion
Beans Matki Bhaji pairs wonderfully with hot steamed rice and a side of Maharashtrian Kadhi for a complete, satisfying lunch or dinner. This dish is perfect for a weekday meal and will surely be a hit with your family.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the nutritious goodness of Beans Matki Bhaji as part of your Maharashtrian cuisine experience!
