Avial Dish Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 04, 2025

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Avial: A South Indian Coconut Delight

Avial is a delightful and healthy vegetable curry from Kerala, South India. This creamy, subtly spiced dish is a staple in many South Indian homes and is surprisingly easy to make. Its unique blend of coconut milk, yogurt, and a variety of vegetables makes it a flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion. This guide will walk you through a simple and delicious Avial recipe.

Ingredients for a Flavorful Avial

To prepare a truly authentic and delicious Avial, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Vegetables: The beauty of Avial lies in its versatility. Feel free to use your favorite vegetables! Common choices include:

  • 1 cup drumsticks (cut into 2-inch pieces)
  • 1 cup beans (cut into 2-inch pieces)
  • 1 cup potatoes (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1/2 cup carrots (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1/2 cup green beans (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1/2 cup raw banana (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1/4 cup ash gourd (cut into 1-inch pieces)

• Spices: A subtle blend of spices creates the perfect Avial taste profile.

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1/2 tsp urad dal (split black lentils)
  • 1-2 green chilies (slit lengthwise)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
  • 1/4 tsp curry leaves
  • Salt to taste

• Coconut Milk and Yogurt: These ingredients provide the signature creamy texture and tangy flavor.

  • 1/2 cup thick coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup thick yogurt

Step-by-Step Avial Recipe: A Culinary Journey

Follow these steps for a perfect Avial experience:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut all the vegetables into uniformly sized pieces. This ensures even cooking. Blanching some vegetables (like beans or potatoes) beforehand can help achieve optimal texture.

2. Tempering the Spices: Heat coconut oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add urad dal, green chilies, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté briefly until fragrant.

3. Sautéing Vegetables: Add the turmeric powder and salt. Stir well. Now, introduce all the chopped vegetables to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are well coated with the spice mixture.

4. Simmering to Perfection: Pour in the coconut milk and allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still retain their shape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Finishing Touch: Stir in the yogurt and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Do not boil after adding the yogurt, as it may curdle.

6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a few curry leaves for added freshness. Serve hot with rice or dosa (South Indian crepe).

Tips for the Perfect Avial

• Vegetable Selection: Experiment with different combinations of vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
• Coconut Milk: Using freshly grated coconut to make coconut milk adds a richer flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your preference.
• Consistency: If you prefer a thicker Avial, simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid.

Why This Avial Recipe Stands Out

This Avial recipe stands out due to its simplicity, versatility, and authentic flavors. It offers a balanced blend of textures and tastes, making it a truly satisfying and healthy dish. The step-by-step instructions ensure even novice cooks can achieve delicious results. Try this recipe today and experience the unique culinary heritage of Kerala!