Do  you want an easy-to-make side dish with health benefits that can flavor your meals? Then look no further than Beans Poriyal, the classical South Indian recipe that will surely be a healthy yet delicious addition to your lunch or dinner plate. Preparing it with fresh green beans, grated coconut, and a handful of savory spices, it is simply perfect for you to add some new flavors to your everyday dishes. It is just right for any family kitchen or for testing out any new recipes you might discover.

What is beans poriyal?

Beans poriyal is an easy South Indian stir-fry made using finely chopped green beans. It is a rather lightly spiced preparation, with fresh coconut lying on top, making the dish quite healthy and luscious. It usually goes as a side dish with rice and sambar, but it even pairs well with chapati or other Indian breads. Beans poriyal is one of those recipes that can be prepared so simply and in such a quick manner that those who love fresh vegetables with authentic Indian flavors will try it for sure.

Why You Must Try?

Here are a few reasons why beans poriyal is a fantastic dish:

Nutrient-Packed Green Bean and Coconut Stir-Fry

This is loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent selection in a healthy diet.

It combines healthy fats and gives extra boosts of energy.

Quick and Easy

• The recipe is easy and fast-cooked, taking just fewer than 20 minutes.
• It’s perfect for weeknights or in festival South Indian meals.
• Low in Calories:
• This bean poriyal is a great side dish that is not heavy and does not add much calories.
• Kid Friendly:
• The flavor is mild, and the crunchy texture makes this dish also pleasing to kids.

Ingredients

To make beans poriyal, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• Green Beans (250 grams, finely chopped)
• Grated Coconut (2 tablespoons)
• Mustard Seeds (1 teaspoon)
• Curry Leaves (a few fresh leaves)
• Dry Red Chilies (2, broken into halves)
• Oil (2 teaspoons)
• Salt (to taste)
• Turmeric Powder (¼ teaspoon)
• Asafoetida (hing) (a pinch, optional)

How to Make Beans Poriyal

Steps to Make a Delicious Beans Poriyal

1.Green Beans Preparation

• Rinse the green beans well and cut off the ends.
• Chop the beans into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.

2.Cooking the Beans

• Take a pan, add some water, and add the chopped beans.
• Add a pinch of turmeric powder and salt, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes till the beans are soft but not mushy. Drain excess water and set aside.

3: Temper the Spices

• Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in the same pan by placing it over a medium flame.
• Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add dry red chilies, curry leaves, and, if using, a pinch of asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds till fragrant.

4: Mix Everything

• Now put the cooked beans into the pan and mix with the tempering spices.
• Add in the grated coconut and then cook over low flame for 2-3 minutes.
• Salt to taste as needed.

5. Serve Hot

• Transfer the beans poriyal into a serving bowl and serve it hot with steamed rice and sambar.
• How to Prepare Beans Poriyal: Use Fresh Beans
• Always use fresh, tender beans for the best texture and flavor.

6.Don’t Overcook:

• Boil the beans, but not too soft, for they become mushy, losing their bright green color when overcooked.

7.Add Coconut at the End

• Then put in the grated coconut. That will preserve all the freshness and flavor.

8.Spice Customization

• You can also add a bit more heat if you want, using extra chilies or a hit of black pepper.

Health Benefits of Beans Poriyal:

Beans poriyal isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with health benefits too! Here’s why this dish is a great addition to your diet:

High in Fiber:

• They contain dietary fiber, which goes a long way in improving digestion as well as general gut health.

Rich in Antioxidants:

• They contain high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, all of which protect your body against free radicals.
• Low in Calories
• Beans poriyal is guilt-free for a side dish and, hence, the best side dish for someone who is trying to lose weight.

Helps in Heart Health

• Green beans and coconut form an excellent combination, providing some much-needed nutrients required to be healthy for your heart.

Beans Poriyal Variations

Of course, the traditional version never goes wrong, but these are some variations you may like to try out now and then:

Spicy Beans Poriyal:

• Green chilies and garam masala will help create this spicier version.

Carrot and Beans Poriyal:

• Add chopped carrots to the recipe for a colorful, nutritious twist.

Garlic Beans Poriyal:

• Toss in minced garlic with the spices for added flavor.

Air-Fried Beans:

• Air-fry the beans instead of steaming them for a healthier version.

Serving Ideas

Beans poriyal is a versatile dish that can be served with different meals:

South Indian Thali:

• Serve it with rice, sambar, rasam, and papad for a full South Indian meal.

Lunchbox Staple:

• Send it along with chapati or rice for a wholesome lunchbox.

Evening Snack:

• Add roasted peanuts to make it crispy and protein-rich.

Tools

• Non-stick Pan: It cooks evenly and cleaning is a breeze. Get yours here.
• Vegetable Chopper: Saves time on beans prepping. Get yours here.
• Coconut Grater: Freshly grated coconut is a must for this recipe. Get yours here.
• Spice Grinder: Get Yours Here.

Conclusion

This is one of the finest examples of how simple ingredients are turned out into a healthy, extremely crunchy, and tasty dish. Rich in cultural roots, nutritional benefits, and versatility, this dish is sure to be loved by any food enthusiast of South Indian cuisine. Beans Poriyal can be prepared for a festive feast or even for a weeknight dinner and is sure to impress.
Now is the time to cook. So get your green beans, coconut, and spices, and taste South India in your plate. Do not forget to check the affiliate links here for the best tools and ingredients to make this dish effortlessly.