Avarakka Varutharacha Kootu - Runner Beans Gravy with Roasted Coconut and Spices

Avarakka or Runner beans is a very versatile vegetable. I have once made a dry side dish with it called Runner Beans Pallya. It is a family favourite. You can make thoran (with coconut and green chillies) or mizhukku varatti (with onions and red chilli powder). It also make a perfect option for making Paruppusli.



Today I was wondering which dish to make with the bunch of avarakka I had. I first decided to make a simple Kootu. After I started I thought why not fancy it up and make a kootu with roasted spices. It was a big hit at home. We enjoyed it with some chapatti. Will make a perfect combo with rice and sambar.





Ingredients

Runner Beans/Avarakka About 800gms
Toor Dal 1 cup
Turmeric 1/2 tsp

Oil and salt to taste

To roast and grind

Coconut 1 cup
Whole pealed urad dal 1 tbsp
Coriander Seeds 1 tbsp
Cumin seeds 1 tsp
Red Chillies 2 (more for spicier version)



Method of Preparation

1. Pressure cook the toor dal with 4 cups of water till it is cooked very well.

2. Chop the runner beans. Add to a pot along with 2-3 cups of water and turmeric powder. Boil till the beans is mostly cooked.

3. In the meanwhile, in a non stock pan add a little oil. Add the urad dal. When it starts to brown, add the coriander seeds, cumin seeds and red chillies. Roast till a nice aroma comes. Add to the mixie.

4. In the same pan, add the coconut and roast till it turns reddish brown. Add that to the mixie. Cool and powder.

4. Once the beans are cooked, add the coconut powder and dal to it. Add salt as required. Bring to boil and simmer for some time till it thickens and it all comes together.