Flavorful Patta Avarakkai Porial: A Perfect Side Dish

Patta Avarakkai Porial is a delicious and nutritious South Indian side dish that pairs beautifully with white rice or rasam. This simple recipe combines the goodness of tender patta avarakkai (broad beans) with a medley of aromatic spices, creating a delightful blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you choose to add tomatoes for a semi-gravy consistency or keep it dry, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dining table. Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

- Patta Avarakkai (broad beans), cleaned and sliced

- Oil

- Mustard seeds (kadugu)

- Urad dal

- Onion, finely chopped

- Curry leaves

- Tomatoes (optional), chopped

- Salt, to taste

- Powdered sombu

- Garam masala

- Turmeric powder

- Chilli powder

- Water

- Grated coconut (optional)

- Coriander leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Clean the patta avarakkai, removing any unwanted parts, and slice them into small pieces.

2. Heat a pan and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and urad dal. Allow them to splutter.

3. Add finely chopped onions and curry leaves to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

4. If you prefer a semi-gravy consistency, add chopped tomatoes at this stage. Mix well until the tomatoes are cooked and blended with the onions.

5. Now, it's time to add salt and the sliced patta avarakkai. Mix them well with the onions and tomatoes (if using).

6. Sprinkle powdered sombu. Stir the vegetables to ensure they are coated with the spices evenly.

7. Cover the pan with a lid and let the vegetables cook for 3-4 minutes until they are partially cooked.

8. Once the vegetables are halfway cooked, add garam masala, turmeric powder, and chilli powder. Mix them well.

9. Add a little water to the pan, but keep in mind that the vegetables will release their own water as they cook. So, there's no need to add too much water.

10. Cover the pan again with the lid and cook until the vegetables are completely cooked, and the spices have blended well.

11. Now, you can enhance the flavor by adding grated coconut. Although optional, it adds a delicious nutty taste to the dish.

12. Finally, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and turn off the flame.

Conclusion:

Patta Avarakkai Porial is a delightful and versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses, from plain white rice to flavorful rasam. Whether you choose to make it semi-gravy or dry, the blend of aromatic spices and tender patta avarakkai will leave you craving for more. So, give this recipe a try and savor the authentic flavors of South Indian cuisine. Enjoy!