A bunch of kale or spinach costs around $1.25 to $1.99. A pound of dry beans cost around $1.20, out of which you'll use a cup to make this curry. Canned beans, if used, might add a little to the cost. The rest of the ingredients would cost around $4 max. The cost may slightly vary depending on the region. This curry with the following measurements, as a single side, can easily feed 6-8 people. At about $8, this curry provides a nourishing meal. Now, I call this a winner! If you are looking for some delicious budget recipes, here are a few:
This curry tastes great with the rice and curry. Raita or yogurt (regular/vegan) when served with this makes it a complete meal. I love raita with anything:-) One other thing about this curry is that it can be easily doubled or tripled. This makes it a winner to make it for get togethers, a delicious curry to enjoy with friends and family, that saves money too.
- Cinnamon (1 in piece) and a star anise can be added to the seasoning and it adds a lot of flavor to the curry.
- Canned beans can also be used.
- The beans can be cooked on the stove top too. It may take a longer time.
- Any other bean can also be substituted.
- Curry powder can be used in the place of sambhar powder.
- Adjust the spiciness according to your chilli or cayenne powder.
- Any greens can be used.
- Frozen greens can also be used.
Navy Beans - 1 cup
Onion - 1 cup, chopped
Kale - 3 cups, chopped
Sambhar / curry powder - 1 tsp
Garam masala - 1 tsp
Turmeric- 1/4 tsp
Salt 1 1/2 tsp
Chilli powder- 1/4 tsp
Tomato - 2 or 3 tomatoes depending on size (puree to get 1 cup)
Coconut milk - 1/2 cup
Water - 3 to 4 cups
To Season
Oil - 2 tbsp
Cumin - 1 tsp
Serrano chilli - 1, slit and cut in half
Ginger - 1 tsp, minced
Garlic - 1 tsp, minced
Method
Soak the navy beans overnight. Drain, wash and cook for 2 whistles in a pressure cooker with three cups water.
Heat oil in a pan, add the seasonings. Then add onions and sauté till they are translucent. Add kale and sauté for 3 min more.
Add 1 cup tomato puree and cook for a couple of minutes. Add all the spice powders and salt. Mix and cook for 3-5 min.
Add the beans with water. Cook for 5 min.
Add 1/2 cup coconut milk and 1/2 cup water. Adjust consistency and check for salt.
Serve hot with rice or flatbreads.
Amy (Savory Moments) says
This dish looks so flavorful and I love a hearty vegetarian dinner.
Inger says
It's one of my objectives to eat more beans. This looks perfect for that!