Kodava Avare Kuru (Double Beans ) Curry

The Double Beans or the Avare Kuru as we call it in Kodagu is a versatile bean that tastes great in a Pulav or in a curry. Once upon a time, they were grown in most homes in Kodagu or Coorg. Since this vegetable is seasonal, after using the fresh beans to make curries, the rest would be dried and carefully stocked for use during the rest of the year.

Like all beans, these Double beans are an excellent source of protein, fibre and minerals. Hence, they are a great inclusion in any diet. Additionally, they are low in fat, cholesterol and sodium.

It feels amazing to pick fresh vegetables from the garden and cook with them. These beans come in various colors and are a pleasure to grow. I love picking the fresh beans, shelling them, and making this delicious curry which is creamy, with earthy flavors. It is best enjoyed with hot Akki Vottis and a generous spoon of butter or ghee (clarified butter).

Here is a recipe to make a delicious Avare Kuru Curry. Hope you enjoy making it. Do share your comments.

You’ll need the following ingredients to make Avare Kuru Curry:

Ingredients (To make curry for 2)

100 gms fresh Red Double Beans, peeled and shelled

1 medium Potato, peeled and cut into small pieces the size of the beans

½ tsp Coriander powder

½ tsp Cumin powder

½ tsp Chilli powder

¼ tsp Turmeric powder

1 medium Onion, diced

1 medium Tomato, diced

½ cup grated Coconut, ground to a fine paste

1tsp Tamarind juice

Salt to taste

½ tsp sugar

A handful of coriander leaves, finely chopped

For the tempering:

1tbsp cooking oil

¼ tsp Mustard seeds

10-12 Curry leaves

4-6 small cloves of Garlic, crushed

Method

  1. In a pressure cooker, cook the beans and the potatoes in enough water to which salt has been added. Add turmeric, chilli, cumin and coriander powders and mix well. It will require 3 whistles.
  2. In a pan, heat oil. When it is hot, add mustard seeds and let it sputter. Add crushed garlic and fry for a few seconds. Add the onions and fry till it turns brown.Next, add the curry leaves and fry for a few seconds.
  3. Now add the tomato and let it cook well. When it leaves the sides, add the cooked beans and potatoes.  Boil till the raw smell goes.
  4. Next, add the coconut paste and sugar. Mix well.
  5. Finally, add the tamarind juice and mix well. Adjust the salt if necessary. Turn off the flame.
  6. Garnish with coriander leaves.

Delicious Avare Kuru curry is ready to serve! This curry is best served with hot Akki Vottis and a dollop of ghee.

Enjoy!

Notes:

If you are using dried double beans, make sure that you soak the seeds overnight.