| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 325 | 15g | 7g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 12g | 9g | 1.04g |
Some recipes find a way to transport you far from home, offering a sultry escape to distant lands with every bite. One such dish I cherish is the Spicy Velvet Bean Curry. Though origins of this recipe trace back to India, a place much farther from my Italian-American homestead in New Jersey, it’s a dish that resonates deeply with my love for hearty, bold flavors drawn from my roots.
Hand-Down Traditions in a New World
Being a grandson to Italian grandparents, authenticity and tradition were fundamental components of every meal. While I savor my spaghetti and meatballs, there’s a sense of adventure in my culinary journey that teases my palate — the Spicy Velvet Bean Curry is one such venture. It’s a fusion of whimsical flavors, total indulgence, much akin to the Italian Ratatouille or the Greek Briam. Think vegetables married in a sauce with a kick, a hint of heat that will ignite your senses, almost similar to the thrill of a grandparent’s tale or a family tradition, only this time, it’s India unfolding her secrets in the palate.
Health In Each Bite
With the Spicy Velvet Bean Curry, not only are you getting a burst of bold flavors, but you’re consuming a powerhouse of nutrients. The star of the dish, velvet beans (or Mucuna Pruriens as they are scientifically called), are known for their high protein content and their benefits to the neurosystem. Additionally, the curry’s ensemble of vegetables, spices, herbs, and coconut milk all contribute to a healthier heart, stronger immune system, and improved digestion. Truly, home cooking at its best!
As a grandfather who loves hiking, it’s crucial for me to maintain a healthy diet without compromising taste. This recipe reveals how simple it is to create a symbiotic relationship between flavor and wellness. Thus, satisfying the foodie and the health enthusiast in me.
Try accompanying this Spicy Velvet Bean Curry with a side of warm basmati rice or naan for a wholesome meal. Or, for a surprising twist, pair it with a slice of crusty Italian bread. Believe me, the tangy and spicy curry, soaking into fresh, warm bread, is an unearthed treasure of flavors worth the discovery.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of chopped velvet beans
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of grated ginger root
- 2 tablespoons of curry powder
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 1 cup of water
- Salt to taste
- 1 handful of fresh cilantro leaves, for garnishing
Method
Step One
Firstly, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger root to the pan. Sauté these ingredients until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step Two
Next, add the finely chopped tomatoes, green chilies, and red bell pepper to the pan. Stir these ingredients and cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes are softened.
Step Three
Now, add the spices – curry powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper to the pan. Mix these ingredients thoroughly so they evenly coat the vegetables. Cook for a couple of minutes until the spices release their aroma.
Step Four
Then, add the chopped velvet beans to the pan and stir them well with the other ingredients. Pour in the cup of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the beans are tender.
Step Five
After the beans are cooked, stir in the cup of coconut milk and add salt to taste. Let the curry simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step Six
Finally, turn off the heat and garnish your Spicy Velvet Bean Curry with a handful of fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot. Enjoy!
