Cheeni Avaraikai Kara Curry (சீனிஅவரைக்காய் காரக்கறி )

Commonly known as kothavarankai and in south tamil nadu it is called as ch(s)eeni avaraikai Mostly people make cheeni avaraikai poriyal, paruppu usili, kootu, vathal etc. This curry is little different in taste as well as easy to prepare. We used to have cluster bean plant at home and we are much used to this veg. Mom prepares vathal and preserve almost every year. Even in villages, this kara curry is prepared to accompany their lunch when they work in the fields. My grandma used to prepare this Kara curry just by adding the ingredients like chili powder and the home made masala which she uses for sambar.  If you have sambar powder you can use it, so no need to add chili powder as chilies are already added in it.

 This Curry suits well with Dal, curd rice, or just to mix with rice and eat. We love this curry with Chapati also.

Ingredients:

Cheeni avaraikai / clustered bean - 1 lb
Sambar powder(prefer home made) - 1 (or) 2 tbsp (adjust according to your spice level)
Oil - 2-3 tbsp
salt - as per taste

To temper:
Oil - 2 tsp
mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp
Urad dal - 1/4 tsp
cumin seeds - a generous pinch
Curry leaves -1 sprig

Preparation:

1.Wash and remove the strings of the Cluster bean.
2. Cut them into an inch length pieces.
3. In a heavy bottom kadai / pan, heat one tbsp of oil and saute the veg until its raw smell leaves and slightly the color changes (5-8 mins). Don't worry, if the veg turns black here and there.
4. Once the raw smell leaves, add the sambar powder and another tbsp of oil and saute for a minute.
5. Add salt and water (veg need to immerse 1/2 inch below the water level approximately).
6. Cover the vessel with lid and let it boil well in simmer flame. Stir occasionaly.
7. Once the veggie is cooked and all the water is absorbed, switch off the flame and temper with the ingredients listed.
Serve with Rice or Chapati :)

Notes:
1. While sauteing the veg initially, make sure to saute well so it will take less time in cooking.
2. If the veg is cooked and still water is remaining, open the lid and cook for few mins (stir gently).
3. If the water is absorbed, but the veg is not cooked well, add some hot boiling water, do not add cold or normal water.
4. While tempering you can add chopped onions for extra flavor.
5. I prefer home made sambar powder bcoz, it will have channa dal in it and gives a semi gravy texture for the curry. even if you dont have home made masala, no worries, store bought masala also works good.

Linking this recipe to Beulah’s First Blog Anniversary Give away @ FullScoops