Sweet Corn & Avarakkai Sundal Recipe: A Healthy and Flavorful Tamil Snack
If you’re looking for a nutritious and flavorful snack to brighten up your day, Sweet Corn & Avarakkai Sundal is an excellent choice! This dish, a popular snack from Tamil Nadu, combines the natural sweetness of corn with the earthy flavors of Avarekalu (also known as lilva beans). It’s a simple yet delicious vegetarian dish, perfect for festivals like Gollu (Navratri) or as a healthy addition to your weekday meals. Ready in just 25 minutes, this sundal makes for a perfect accompaniment to your tea time or a quick and easy snack anytime during the day.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet Corn | 1 cup |
| Avarekalu / Lilva Beans | 1 cup |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Dry Red Chilli | 2 |
| Curry Leaves (roughly torn) | 4-5 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | As needed for frying |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cook the Avarekalu Beans:
Start by pressure cooking the Avarekalu (Lilva Beans). Add the beans to a pressure cooker along with about an inch of water and a pinch of salt. Cook for just one whistle on medium heat. Once done, switch off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. After releasing the pressure, drain all excess water from the beans and set them aside. -
-
Prepare the Tempering:
Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of sunflower oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter for a few seconds. This indicates that the tempering is ready. -
Add the Aromatics:
To the tempering, add curry leaves, dry red chillies, and asafoetida (hing). Let the curry leaves crisp up in the hot oil, which will enhance the flavor of the sundal. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add the cooked Avarekalu beans and sweet corn to the pan. Toss everything together gently and cook for about 8-10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together while keeping the ingredients crisp. -
Finish the Dish:
Once the beans and corn are well-mixed, add the grated coconut and cumin powder to the pan. Stir everything together and adjust the salt to taste. Toss the mixture well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. -
Serve:
Serve your Sweet Corn & Avarekalu Sundal hot, garnished with a few more curry leaves if you prefer. This sundal pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of Masala Chai or can be served alongside Steamed Rice and Mixed Vegetable Sambar for a wholesome lunch.
Tips & Variations:
- Avarekalu Substitutes: If you cannot find Avarekalu or lilva beans, you can substitute them with chickpeas or green beans for a similar texture and flavor.
- Spicy Twist: For those who prefer a spicy kick, you can add a little more chopped green chillies or a pinch of red chilli powder while tossing the sundal.
- Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan as it does not contain any dairy products, making it a great option for plant-based diets.
- Serving Suggestions: This sundal is perfect as a light appetizer for a dinner party or a healthy snack for kids. It’s also a great addition to festival feasts or served with other South Indian dishes.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Sweet Corn & Avarakkai Sundal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of sweet corn and avarekalu beans offers a good source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. The light tempering with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and cumin powder enhances the dish’s flavor profile while maintaining a simple, wholesome character. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a dish for your next festival, or something to accompany your favorite beverage, this sundal is sure to impress. So why not try it today? It’s easy, tasty, and perfect for any occasion!
