Fresh Nithyavazhuthana (Clove Beans) can be transformed into a simple, healthy, and flavorful Kerala-style stir fry (Mezhukkupuratti) using just a handful of ingredients. Tender clove beans, coconut oil, shallots, and green chillies combine to create a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice, kanji, or chapati.
🌿 Nutritional Note:
Clove Beans (Nithyavazhuthana) are a good source of dietary fiber, Vitamin C, potassium, and calcium. Including fresh vegetables like clove beans as part of a balanced diet can contribute to overall health and nutrition.
🍽️ Recipe at a Glance
| 📌 Item | Details |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Recipe | Nithyavazhuthana Stir Fry (Mezhukkupuratti) |
| 🌱 Main Ingredient | Tender Clove Beans (Nithyavazhuthana) |
| 🍳 Cuisine | Kerala |
| ⏱️ Preparation Time | 10 Minutes |
| 🔥 Cooking Time | 8–10 Minutes |
| 👨👩👧 Servings | 3–4 |
🌿 What is Nithyavazhuthana?
Nithyavazhuthana, also known as Clove Beans, is a perennial vegetable commonly grown in Kerala home gardens.
The word “Nithya” means daily in Malayalam, referring to the plant’s ability to produce fresh beans throughout much of the year. Tender pods are widely used in traditional Kerala recipes, especially stir fries and curries.
📖 Also Read: How to Grow Clove Beans (Nithyavazhuthana) Organically
🛒 Ingredients
| 🥣 Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 🌱 Tender Clove Beans (Nithyavazhuthana) | 250 g |
| 🧅 Shallots | 4–5, finely chopped |
| 🌶️ Green Chillies | 2–3 |
| 🟡 Turmeric Powder | 2–3 pinches |
| 🥥 Coconut Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| 🧂 Salt | To taste |
🔄 Optional Alternatives
- Use one medium onion if shallots are unavailable.
- Replace green chillies with 2–3 dried red chillies or ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder.
👩🍳 Preparation
- Wash the clove beans thoroughly.
- Remove the tough white base (bulb) from each pod.
- Cut the beans into two or three equal pieces.
- Chop the shallots and slit the green chillies.
🍳 How to Make Nithyavazhuthana Stir Fry
1️⃣ Heat the Oil
Heat 2 teaspoons of coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add the Ingredients
Add:
- Tender clove beans
- Shallots
- Green chillies
- Turmeric powder
- Salt
Mix everything well so the ingredients are evenly coated with oil and turmeric.
3️⃣ Cook Covered
Cover the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4️⃣ Finish Cooking
Remove the lid and continue cooking on low heat for another 2–3 minutes until the beans become tender while retaining a slight crunch.
Serve hot.
🍚 Serving Suggestions
This simple Kerala stir fry pairs wonderfully with:
- 🍚 Steamed rice
- 🥣 Kerala kanji (rice porridge)
- 🫓 Chapati
- 🥘 Sambar or rasam
- 🥥 Kerala-style curries
💡 Cooking Tips
- 🌱 Always use tender beans for the best texture and flavour.
- 🥥 Coconut oil gives the authentic Kerala taste.
- 🌶️ Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
- 🔥 Avoid overcooking to retain the beans’ natural colour and nutrients.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🌱 What is Nithyavazhuthana?
Nithyavazhuthana, also known as Clove Beans, is a perennial vegetable commonly grown in Kerala and used in a variety of traditional dishes.
🍳 Can I use onions instead of shallots?
Yes. One medium onion can be used if shallots are unavailable.
🥥 Is coconut oil necessary?
Coconut oil provides the authentic Kerala flavour, but any cooking oil can be used if preferred.
🌶️ Can I make it less spicy?
Yes. Simply reduce the number of green chillies or substitute them with a small amount of chilli powder.
🌿 Conclusion
Nithyavazhuthana Stir Fry is a quick, nutritious, and delicious Kerala side dish that requires only a few everyday ingredients. If you grow Clove Beans in your home garden, this traditional recipe is one of the best ways to enjoy their fresh flavour while adding a healthy vegetable to your daily meals.