French Beans Recipe – Authentic Indian Stir-Fry with Coconut

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

French Beans Recipe – Authentic Indian Stir-Fry with Coconut

Hey everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s been a staple in my family for years – a simple yet incredibly flavorful French Beans Stir-Fry with Coconut. It’s the kind of dish my amma (mom) would whip up on a busy weeknight, and it always felt like such a comforting hug in a bowl. It’s quick, easy, and packed with that classic South Indian flavor. You’ll absolutely love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French Beans recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a little taste of home. It’s wonderfully aromatic, thanks to the mustard seeds and curry leaves, and the coconut adds a lovely sweetness and texture. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes! It’s perfect with rice, sambar, roti… honestly, just about anything.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious French Beans Stir-Fry:

• 225-250 grams French beans
• 2 tablespoons oil (neutral flavored or coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal (split husked black gram)
• 2 dry red chilies (deseeded)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 pinch asafoetida (hing)
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh grated coconut
• ½ – ¾ cup water (adjust to preference)
• Salt as required

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

French Beans: Choosing the Best & Preparing Them
Look for firm, bright green beans that snap easily. Avoid beans that are limp or have brown spots. To prepare, rinse and drain them well. Then, remove the strings along the seam – it’s a little tedious, but worth it for the texture! Chop them into roughly 1-inch pieces.

Oil: Neutral vs. Coconut Oil – Which to Use?
You can use either a neutral-flavored oil like sunflower or vegetable oil, or coconut oil. Coconut oil will impart a subtle coconut flavor, which I personally love. It really enhances the overall taste!

Urad Dal: Understanding This Essential Lentil
Urad dal adds a lovely nutty flavor and helps create a beautiful texture. It’s a staple in South Indian cooking. Don’t skip it!

Asafoetida (Hing): A Flavorful & Digestive Aid
Asafoetida, or hing, has a pungent smell in its raw form, but it transforms into a savory, umami-rich flavor when cooked. It also aids in digestion – a little bonus! A pinch goes a long way.

Regional Variations in French Bean Recipes

While this recipe is pretty classic, you’ll find variations across India. Some recipes include onions and tomatoes, while others add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. In some coastal regions, they even add a touch of tamarind paste for a tangy twist. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, rinse and drain your French beans. Remove the strings and chop them into 1-inch pieces. Set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the mustard seeds and urad dal. Let them sizzle and splutter – this is where the magic begins! Fry until the mustard seeds pop and the dal turns reddish-brown.
3. Now, add the dry red chilies (broken into pieces), curry leaves, turmeric powder, and asafoetida. Give everything a good mix and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped French beans. Sauté for about a minute, then add the water and salt.
5. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are tender but still have a slight bite.
6. Once the beans are cooked and most of the water has evaporated, sprinkle in the grated coconut. Give it a gentle stir and remove from the heat.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this recipe even better:

Achieving the Perfect Texture
Don’t overcook the beans! You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy.

Balancing Spice Levels
Adjust the number of red chilies to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the chilies or use just one.

Using Fresh vs. Dried Ingredients
Freshly grated coconut is always best, but you can use unsweetened desiccated coconut in a pinch.

Variations

Vegan Adaptation
This recipe is naturally vegan!

Gluten-Free Adaptation
This recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Spice Level Adjustment (Mild, Medium, Hot)
* Mild: Use 1 dry red chili, deseeded.
* Medium: Use 2 dry red chilies, deseeded.
* Hot: Use 3-4 dry red chilies, with some seeds left in.

Festival Adaptations (Onam, Pongal)
During Onam and Pongal, I sometimes add a small piece of jaggery (gur) along with the coconut for a touch of sweetness. It’s a lovely addition!

Serving Suggestions

This French Beans Stir-Fry is incredibly versatile. Serve it hot with:

• Steamed rice and sambar
• Roti or chapati
• As a side dish with your favorite Indian curry
• Even as part of a larger thali (platter)

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

What is the best way to remove the strings from French beans?
Hold the bean firmly and use a paring knife to gently scrape along the seam on both sides. The strings should come off easily.

Can I use frozen French beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just add them directly to the pan and cook for a few minutes longer, as they may release more water.

What can I substitute for asafoetida (hing)?
If you can’t find asafoetida, you can omit it, but it does add a unique flavor. A tiny pinch of garlic powder can be a very distant substitute.

How can I adjust the salt level in this dish?
Start with a teaspoon of salt and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
You can chop the beans and measure out the spices ahead of time to save time. However, it’s best to cook the dish just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What are the health benefits of French beans?
French beans are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They’re also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to your diet!