Stir Fried Carrot and Green Beans Recipe
A Quick and Flavorful Indian Stir Fry for Your Lunchbox or Main Course
Stir Fried Carrot and Green Beans is a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with essential nutrients. This simple stir fry combines the sweetness of carrots with the subtle crunch of green beans, perfectly balanced by aromatic spices. It’s an ideal choice for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal to pack for lunch or serve alongside your main dish.
This recipe is not only quick but also utilizes everyday Indian spices that are typically found in most kitchens, making it a go-to dish for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Whether you’re craving a healthy vegetable side dish or just need something simple to go with your rice or roti, this stir fry is a delicious and wholesome addition to your meal plan.
Recipe Overview:
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green beans (French beans) | 50 grams, sliced diagonally |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 1, sliced diagonally |
| Ginger | 1 inch, chopped |
| Cloves (Laung) | 4, crushed |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
| Vitamin A | 100% of daily value |
| Vitamin C | 20% of daily value |
Instructions
-
Heat the Pan:
Begin by heating a flat skillet or wok on medium flame and add a small amount of oil (around 1 tablespoon). Allow the oil to heat up. -
Temper the Spices:
Add the cumin seeds to the hot oil. Allow them to crackle for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the crushed cloves and chopped ginger, and sauté for another minute to release the flavors. -
Add the Vegetables:
Once the spices are fragrant, toss in the sliced green beans and carrots. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the tempering. Continue to sauté for about 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly. -
Season the Vegetables:
Now, add the salt, red chili powder, black pepper powder, and coriander powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring the spices coat the vegetables evenly. Reduce the heat slightly and let the vegetables cook for another 5 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking. -
Cook to Perfection:
After the 5 minutes, cover the pan and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The green beans and carrots should be tender but still retain a slight crunch. Taste the vegetables and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. -
Serving Suggestions:
Once the vegetables are perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the stir fry to a serving plate and serve hot.
For a complete meal, enjoy it with Keerai Sambar and Steamed Rice, or pair it with a comforting Mattar Paneer and Makki Ki Roti.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry makes a great side dish to complement a variety of Indian main courses. Pair it with a bowl of steaming rice or any flatbread like roti or paratha for a balanced and satisfying meal. It can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone dish or alongside dal for extra protein.
For added variety, you can experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or potatoes, or add a handful of freshly chopped cilantro for garnish before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Stir Fry:
- Cook the vegetables al dente: The key to this stir fry is to ensure that the green beans and carrots remain slightly crisp. Overcooking them will result in a mushy texture, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the quantity of red chili powder or black pepper. For an extra spicy kick, increase the amount of chili powder or add some finely chopped green chilies.
- Add some crunch: To give the dish more texture, you can sprinkle some roasted cashews or peanuts over the top just before serving.
Conclusion
The Stir Fried Carrot and Green Beans Recipe is a wonderful addition to any meal. Its simplicity, coupled with the aromatic blend of Indian spices, makes it a tasty and nutritious choice. Whether you’re packing it for lunch or serving it with your favorite curry or rice, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and taste buds alike.
Try it out next time you need something quick and easy, and experience the magic of everyday ingredients transformed into a delightful dish!
