Gawar Bhaji (Cluster Beans Stir-Fry)

Ingredients

• 250 g Gawar (Cluster Beans) (cleaned and broken into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 tbsp Oil
• 0.5 tsp Mustard Seeds
• 0.5 tsp Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
• 0.25 tsp Hing (Asafoetida)
• 0.25 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 5 Garlic (crushed or pounded)
• 2 tsp Kanda Lasun Masala (or red chili powder)
• 3 tbsp Roasted Peanut Powder (Shengdana Koot) (coarsely ground)
• Salt (to taste)
• 0.5 cup Water (for steaming)
• Fresh Cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   Clean the gawar (cluster beans) by removing the ends and stringing them if necessary, then break them into roughly 1-inch pieces by hand. Wash them thoroughly and drain.

2. 2

   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a kadhai or pan over medium heat.

3. 3

   Once the oil is hot, add 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds and a pinch of hing.

4. 4

   Add the crushed garlic and sauté for a few seconds until the raw smell disappears and it turns slightly golden.

5. 5

   Add the cleaned gawar pieces to the pan. Sauté the beans in the oil for 2-3 minutes; this frying step helps remove the slight bitterness of the beans and improves texture.

6. 6

   Add 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder and 2 teaspoons of Kanda Lasun Masala (adjust to your spice preference). Mix well so the beans are coated in the spices.

7. 7

   Add salt to taste and about 1/2 cup of water. Stir to combine.

8. 8

   Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low to medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Check occasionally to ensure there is enough moisture to prevent burning.

9. 9

   Once the beans are cooked through, add 3 tablespoons of roasted peanut powder. Mix well and cook uncovered for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the moisture to dry up slightly.

10. 10

    Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

If you don't have Kanda Lasun Masala, you can substitute with a mix of red chili powder and a little Goda Masala or Garam Masala. For best results, use fresh, tender cluster beans.

Nutrition per serving

• Main Course
• Vegetarian
• Vegan
• Maharashtrian
• Indian
• Gluten-Free
• Stir-Fry
• Healthy