Overview
Carrot and Beans Thoran is a traditional Kerala dish, celebrated for its vibrant colors and delightful flavors. This stir-fry combines the earthy sweetness of carrots with the crispness of green beans, seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh curry leaves. Perfect as a side dish, it pairs beautifully with rice and sambar, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrots | 3, chopped |
| Green beans | 20, chopped |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Green chilies | 3, slit lengthwise |
| Cumin powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon, to taste |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 10 leaves |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 15 minutes |
| Cooking | 35 minutes |
| Total | 50 minutes |
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings.
Instructions
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Prepare the Vegetables: Start by thoroughly washing and chopping the carrots and green beans. Place them in a bowl along with the chopped onion, slit green chilies, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
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Heat the Oil: In a kadai or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and curry leaves. Sauté for about 10 seconds until the mustard seeds begin to splutter and the curry leaves release their fragrance.
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Cook the Vegetable Mixture: Add the prepared vegetable mixture to the kadai. Stir well to combine with the tempered spices, then cover the pan with a lid. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
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Add Coconut: Once the vegetables are cooked, add freshly grated coconut if desired (optional) and stir well. Cook for an additional 3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Serve: Turn off the heat and transfer the Carrot and Beans Thoran to a serving bowl. This dish is best enjoyed warm, served alongside mixed vegetable sambar and steamed rice.
Tips for the Best Thoran
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and spices for a more vibrant flavor.
- Coconut: Adding grated coconut at the end provides a wonderful texture and enhances the dish’s authenticity.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as cabbage or peas to create your unique version of thoran.
Conclusion
Carrot and Beans Thoran is a wholesome and nutritious dish that encapsulates the essence of Kerala’s culinary heritage. With its quick preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or festive feasts, providing a burst of color and health to your plate. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones and savor the wonderful tastes of home-cooked Indian cuisine!