Avial
Avial is a comforting coconut-based vegetable stew from the southern Indian state of Kerala. It's a staple of the region's vegetarian Sadhya feast, a multi-course meal served on a banana leaf. The dish is a medley of fresh summer vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and potatoes, braised in a mildly spiced coconut milk sauce. It's a testament to the harmony of flavors and textures that can be achieved with a simple blend of spices and fresh produce.
Avial's roots can be traced back to the ancient Ayurvedic tradition of balancing the body's three doshas, or energy forces. The dish is believed to promote digestion and overall well-being. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a culinary masterpiece, passed down through generations of home cooks in Kerala. Each family has its own unique variation, but the essence of the dish remains the same: a symphony of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and the cooling embrace of coconut milk.
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Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, green beans, and peas)
  • 1/2 cup grated coconut
  • 1/4 cup chopped ginger
  • 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
Instructions
  1. Heat a little oil in a pan and add the mustard seeds.
  2. When the mustard seeds start to splutter, add the cumin seeds and green chilies.
  3. Add the grated coconut and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the vegetables, turmeric powder, and red chili powder.
  5. Add water and salt to taste.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Serve hot with rice or roti.
Why It Works
  • The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a harmonious balance of flavors, with the richness of the coconut complementing the warmth of the spices.
  • The addition of mustard seeds and cumin seeds provides a subtle crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
  • The use of fresh vegetables ensures a vibrant texture and a boost of nutrients.
  • The gentle simmering process allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to tenderize without losing their integrity.