VAL PAPDI BHAJI (FLAT BEANS STIR FRY)

 VAL PAPDI BHAJI (FLAT BEANS STIR FRY) 

Val Papdi is what flat beans are known as in Maharashtra and Goa. This is known as Chapparada Avarekayi in Kannada and Surti Papdi in Gujarati. 

Flat beans are a good source of Vitamins for us apart from having numerous other health benefits. 

Today's recipe is for a simple, easy to make but tasty stir fry. I have adapted this from Val Papdi Bhaji in Archana's Kitchen. 

Ingredients:-

• Val Papdi ( Flat Beans), 350-400 grams
• Mustard Seeds, 1/2 tsp
• Cumin Seeds, 1/2 tsp 
• Byadgi Red Chilles, 2-  broken into halves
• Curry Leaves, a sprig
• Turmeric Powder, 1/2 tsp 
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, 2 tsp

Grind To A Coarse Paste:-

• Fresh Coconut Gratings, 3 tbsp 
• Garlic Cloves, 4-5 
• Tamarind Paste, 1 tsp 

Method:-

Wash and de-string the flat beans

Open the beans and cut them into 1/2 inch pieces

In a small mixer jar, grind together coconut gratings, garlic cloves, and tamarind paste to a coarse mix  Keep aside

Heat oil in a thick-bottomed kadhai and on medium heat add the mustard seeds and when they splutter add the cumin seeds, and when they sizzle add the broken red chillies and curry leaves. Saute for a few seconds 

To this add the cut flat beans, turmeric powder and salt to taste 

Mix well, cover and cook on medium heat, stirring from time to time, for about 10 minutes or till the  beans get almost done ( there is no need to add water as the beans should get cooked in its own steam ) 

Now add the ground paste and mix well 

Cook till the raw smell of the garlic goes and the beans get fully done and are well-blended with the ground masala

Switch off the gas and transfer to a serving bowl 

Serve hot as a side dish with the main meal