Avial is one of the most iconic and inevitable side dishes served in any Kerala meals. It’s not only a favorite in my household but also a brilliant way to add more vegetables to your diet! A delicious mix of various vegetables like yam, plantain, carrots, and drumsticks, this dish is bound together by a luscious coconut mixture and tangy curd (yogurt) for flavor.
The origins of Avial trace back to the great epic Mahabharata, where it is said that Bhima, disguised as a cook during his exile at King Virata’s palace, invented this dish. With no specific instructions on what to make, Bhima chopped up all available vegetables, mixed them with coconut and seasonings, and created this delightful dish, impressing the king and his guests.
This recipe is also a great way to include 4-5 different vegetables in one dish, making it both healthy and wholesome. Let’s dive into making this flavorful and colorful dish, which is perfect for any occasion.
Avial
Discover how to make Avial, a healthy, flavorful Kerala dish packed with mixed vegetables, coconut, and a touch of yogurt.
Ingredients
Vegetables - cut into 1.5-inch thin pieces
- ½ cup carrot
- ½ cup white melon or ashgourd
- ½ cup plantain
- ½ cup snake gourd
- ½ cup elephant foot yam
- 1 small drumstick
- ½ cup string beans
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup whipped yogurt (curd)
For the coconut mixture:
- ½ cup grated coconut
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2 shallots
- 2-3 green chilies (adjust to taste)
For seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 2 sprigs curry leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut the vegetables (carrot, plantain, snake gourd, yam, beans, and drumstick) into thin, 1.5-inch long pieces.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, add the cut vegetables, ½ cup of water, ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cover and cook on medium heat for about 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender, plantain and yam cooked through
- Prepare the Coconut Mixture: While the vegetables are cooking, crush ½ cup grated coconut with ½ teaspoon cumin seeds, 2 shallots, and 2-3 green chilies. Be careful not to grind it into a fine paste; the mixture should remain coarse for texture.
- Combine the Coconut Mixture with Vegetables: Once the vegetables are tender, make a small well in the center of the skillet. Add the coconut mixture to this well, cover it with some of the vegetables, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, covered to allow the coconut to steam.
- Add Yogurt: Add ¼ cup of whipped yogurt and gently mix with the vegetables and coconut mixture, ensuring everything is well combined. Adjust the salt to taste at this stage.
- Finish with Coconut Oil & Curry Leaves: Turn off the heat and drizzle 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over the Avial. Add 2 sprigs of fresh curry leaves, cover the dish, and let it rest for 10-20 minutes. This resting time enhances the flavors and aromas of the dish.
- Serve: Serve the Avial warm as a side dish with rice and other traditional Kerala dishes.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1 cupAmount Per Serving: Calories: 200Total Fat: 6gCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 5gProtein: 3g
Customizations for Avial
One of the best things about Aviyal is how versatile it is. Here are some easy customizations you can try to adjust the tanginess and consistency of the dish based on your preference:
1. Tanginess:
- Raw Mango: For a refreshing and sour twist, replace yogurt with ½ cup of raw mango slices. Add the mango slices while cooking the vegetables. This adds a sharp tangy taste, perfect for those who prefer a stronger flavor.
- Tamarind: If you like the deep, earthy tang of tamarind, use ¼ cup of tamarind pulp. Add it after the coconut mixture and simmer for 2-3 minutes to bring out the tangy goodness.
2. Consistency:
- Gravy-Like Avial: If you prefer a more gravy-like Avial, use ¾ cup of grated coconut and grind it into a fine paste with 2-3 tablespoons of water. This makes the dish more liquid and is perfect for pairing with rice.
These customizations allow you to tailor the dish to your taste and make it your own. Whether you like it thick and chunky or tangy and smooth, there’s a version of Avial for everyone!