Spicy Avarekalu Stir-Fry: South Indian Field Beans Recipe

Avarekalu Usli Recipe – South Indian Delight

Avarekalu Usli is a wholesome, spicy South Indian dish made with tender, nutrient-rich field beans (avarekalu), simmered in aromatic spices, and finished with a splash of lemon juice for added zest. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect as a side dish for lunch or dinner, especially when paired with Lachha Paratha and a cool Boondi Raita. Ideal for vegetarians and a staple in Karnataka, this usli is comforting and packs a punch with its unique, authentic taste.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Avarekalu (field beans), fresh or frozen	2 cups
Onion, finely chopped	1 medium
Green chilies, finely chopped	3
Ginger, grated	1-inch piece
Garlic, grated	1 tsp
Lemon juice	1 tbsp
Asafoetida (hing)	A pinch
Turmeric powder	1/2 tsp
Salt	To taste
Mustard seeds	1 tsp
White urad dal (split and skinned black gram)	1/2 tsp
Curry leaves	A few sprigs

Preparation Time and Servings

Metric	Details
Preparation Time	10 minutes
Cooking Time	30 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes
Servings	4

Instructions

Preparation of Ingredients:
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- Begin by finely chopping the onions and green chilies.
- Grate the ginger and garlic and set aside.
- If using fresh avarekalu, rinse thoroughly; if using frozen, allow it to thaw briefly.
Tempering in Pressure Cooker:
- Heat oil in a pressure cooker on medium flame.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter, then add the white urad dal. Stir until the dal turns golden brown and aromatic.
Sauté Aromatics:
- Add a pinch of asafoetida, followed by the curry leaves, chopped green chilies, grated ginger, garlic, and onions.
- Sauté the onions until they soften and become translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
Cooking the Avarekalu:
- Add the cleaned avarekalu beans to the cooker and sauté them for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
- Sprinkle in the turmeric powder and salt. Mix well and cook for another minute, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated with spices.
Pressure Cooking:
- Pour in a little water (just enough to avoid sticking) and close the lid of the pressure cooker.
- Cook for 2 whistles on medium flame, allowing the avarekalu to become tender.
- Once done, let the pressure release naturally.
Finishing Touches:
- Open the cooker and add the lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Garnish generously with fresh coriander leaves.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Avarekalu Usli hot with Lachha Paratha and a side of Boondi Raita for a complete meal.
- Enjoy the authentic South Indian flavors in every bite!