Chettinad-Style Mochakottai Kulambu (Val Bean Curry)

40 minutes

906 reads

3.67 from 3 votes

About Chettinad-Style Mochakottai Kulambu (Val Bean Curry)

Discover the rich flavors of South India with this authentic Chettinad-style Mochakottai Kulambu, a hearty and healthy curry made with val beans (also known as hyacinth beans or field beans). This flavorful dish is simmered with aromatic spices, onions, tomatoes, and coconut, creating a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a special lunch or dinner.
Mochakottai beans are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with fiber for improved digestion. This recipe offers a simple yet elegant approach to preparing this often-overlooked legume, showcasing its unique taste and texture. Easily adaptable, you can substitute black-eyed peas (karamani) for a delightful twist.
Serve this wholesome curry alongside fluffy steamed rice for a complete and balanced South Indian feast. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will transport your taste buds to the heart of Chettinad cuisine.
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Recipe Time & More

Prep20 minutes
Cook20 minutes
Total40 minutes
Calories30 kcal
Serves5
Served AsLunch

Ingredients
 

Beans & Soak

  • 1 cup Hyacinth Bean also known as mochakottai beans or field beans. rinse thoroughly before use., val beans
  • Water enough to cover Water for soaking beans.

Aromatics & Spices

Coconut & Tamarind

  • 1/2 cup Coconut fresh, grated
  • 1 Tamarind about the size of a lemon, soaked in warm water to extract pulp

Tempering & Other

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Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Dry roast the Mochakottai beans in a pan for a few minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Soak the roasted beans in water for at least 6 hours.
  • Prepare the tamarind extract by soaking the tamarind in warm water for about 15 minutes, then squeezing out the pulp.
  • Grind the coconut and 1 1/4 teaspoons of cumin seeds into a smooth paste with a little water.
  • Pressure cook the soaked beans until tender (about 5 whistles).

Cooking the Curry

  • Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai. Add the mustard seeds, split black gram, and remaining cumin seeds. Once they begin to splutter, add the curry leaves.
  • Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.
  • Add the chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and minced garlic. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  • Add the cooked and drained Mochakottai beans, along with salt. Mix well and cook for a few more minutes.
  • Stir in the ground coconut paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
  • Pour in the tamarind extract and add 1/2 cup of the water reserved from the pressure-cooked beans.
  • Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Check seasoning.
  • Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Mochakottai Kulambu

  • For a richer flavor, use freshly grated coconut instead of desiccated coconut.
  • Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can boil the beans until tender, which may take longer.
  • Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end enhances the overall flavor profile.

Please appreciate the author by voting!

3.67 from 3 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 30kcalCarbohydrates: 1gFat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.8gSodium: 684mgSugar: 1g

Madraasi Deepa
Madraasi Deepa

Full-time blogger, mother, food reviewer, product reviewer, and lover of exploring historical places and fashion.

Articles: 146
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3 Comments

3.67 from 3 votes

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