Butter Beans Masala: A Flavorful Indian Side Dish Recipe
30 minutes
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About Butter Beans Masala: A Flavorful Indian Side Dish Recipe
Experience the creamy delight of Butter Beans Masala, a simple yet flavorful Indian side dish. Also known as Lima Beans, their buttery texture is perfectly complemented by warming spices and aromatic herbs. This recipe uses readily available ingredients and is perfect for weeknight dinners.While fresh butter beans are a summer treat, this recipe works equally well with dried or canned beans, making it accessible year-round. It's a recipe I've adapted from my hometown, bringing a taste of home to your table.Serve this versatile dish alongside rice, roti, or naan for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready to savor the authentic flavors of this comforting Indian classic!
Recipe Time & More
Prep10 minutes
Cook20 minutes
Total30 minutes
Ingredients
Beans & Spices
Aromatics & Fresh Herbs
- 1 Onion finely chopped, medium-sized
- 1 sprig Curry Leaf
- 2 Chili Pepper finely chopped, green
Instructions
Preparation
- Finely chop the onion and green chilies. Grate the fresh coconut.
Making the Spice Paste
- Grind together the coconut, cumin seeds, green chilies, and a splash of water into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor.
Sautéing the Spices
- Heat the oil in a pressure cooker or heavy-bottomed pot. Add the mustard seeds and split black gram. Wait until they begin to splutter and pop.
Cooking the Onions
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Adding the Beans and Spices
- Add the butter beans, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raw smell of the beans disappears.
Incorporating the Coconut Paste
- Stir in the ground coconut paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Simmering and Pressure Cooking
- Pour in the cup of water. Bring to a boil. Then, cover and pressure cook for 3 whistles (or until the beans are tender). If not using a pressure cooker, simmer uncovered until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Finishing Touches
- Once the pressure is released, remove the lid and cook on medium heat until the extra water evaporates and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Serving
- Transfer the Butter Beans Masala to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh curry leaves (optional). Serve hot as a delicious side dish with your favorite Indian meal.
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips for the Best Butter Beans Masala
- Fresh is Best (If Possible): If you can find fresh butter beans, use them! They'll have a slightly sweeter, more delicate flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of green chili according to your preference. For a milder dish, use less or omit them entirely.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked butter beans can become mushy. Cook just until they are tender but still hold their shape.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh curry leaves adds a beautiful aroma and a pop of color to your dish.
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 124kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 5gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.01gSodium: 78mgPotassium: 376mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 26IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 2mg
4 Comments
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I’m loving this recipe already!
I’m excited to make this at home!
Looks so flavorful! Thanks for posting.
This is awesome! Can’t wait to cook it.