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