Are you looking for a quick and easy, yet incredibly flavorful side dish to complement your next Indian meal? Look no further! This French beans recipe delivers a burst of fresh, vibrant taste that will tantalize your taste buds. It's perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it a go-to recipe for even the busiest of cooks. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can transform into a truly delicious and healthy meal. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 250g fresh French beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, finely grated
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Beans: Wash and trim the French beans, removing the ends. Cut them into 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the oil in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly golden. This step builds the flavor base of the dish.
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Add the Spices: Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic and ginger, as this can impart a bitter taste.
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Spice it Up: Stir in the turmeric powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Sauté for a few seconds until the spices are fragrant, allowing their flavors to bloom.
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Cook the Beans: Add the French beans to the pan and stir well to coat them with the spice mixture. Add a pinch of salt.
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Simmer to Perfection: Add about 1/4 cup of water, cover the pan, and let the beans simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Finishing Touches: Once the beans are cooked, remove the lid and let the excess water evaporate slightly. Stir in the lemon juice (if using) and garnish with fresh cilantro.
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Serve Hot: Serve the French beans hot as a delicious side dish with your favorite Indian main course, such as rice, roti, or dal.
Cooking Tips for the Best French Beans:
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) along with the spices.
- Don't overcook the beans; they should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, you can use ghee (clarified butter) instead of oil.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding other vegetables like potatoes, peas, or carrots.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of cream or yogurt at the end for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of dry red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes. A typical serving provides around 100-150 calories, making it a guilt-free addition to your healthy meals.
This simple French beans recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It's a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!