Bean Curry Recipe

This South African bean curry is a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious dish that's easy to prepare. Perfect for vegetarians and those seeking a comforting meal, it combines simple ingredients with aromatic spices to create a rich, satisfying curry.

Ingredients

Serves: 4-6

Beans: 2 cups dried beans (sugar beans, red kidney beans, or black-eyed peas), soaked overnight, or 2 cans of beans, drained and rinsed.

Onion: 1 large onion, finely chopped

Tomatoes : 2 large ripe tomatoes, grated or blended

Potatoes: 2 medium potatoes, diced (optional)

Garlic: 3 cloves, minced

Ginger: 1-inch piece, minced

Spices :

2 tsp curry powder (medium or hot, based on preference)

1 tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 tsp ground coriander

½ tsp garam masala (optional)

Chilies: 1-2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)

Oil: 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee

Salt: To taste

Fresh Coriander : A handful, chopped for garnish

Water or Stock: 2 cups

Instructions:

Prepare the Beans

If using dried beans, rinse and cook them in salted water until tender. This can take 1-2 hours depending on the bean variety. If using canned beans, rinse thoroughly and set aside.

Sauté the Base

Heat oil or ghee in a spacious pot over medium heat. Introduce the cumin seeds and allow them to sizzle for 30 seconds.

Incorporate the diced onion and cook until it achieves a golden brown color.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Spice it Up

Lower the heat and add curry powder, turmeric, and ground coriander. Mix well to coat the onions and release the spices' aroma.

Cook the Tomatoes

Add the grated or blended tomatoes. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil separates and the tomatoes reduce into a thick paste.

Add Beans and Potatoes

Mix in the cooked or canned beans and diced potatoes (if using). Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Curry

Pour in 2 cups of water or stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the curry simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to cook through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finish with Garam Masala

When the curry reaches your preferred thickness, incorporate the garam masala (if desired) and modify the salt according to your taste.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and decorate with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Enjoy this flavorful South African bean curry as a comforting, wholesome meal!

ORDER FRESH BULK SPICES ONLINE FROM KITCHEN HUTT SPICES:

turmeric powder

cumin seeds

ground coriander