This is one of my favourite ways of cooking beans. This method is popular in Andhra Pradesh and also in Tamil Nadu. It is simple, easy, no fuss cooking.
500 grams green beans very thinly cut (about 2 millimetres wide)
1 medium sized onion finely chopped
1 -2 green chillies finely chopped
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
75 grams of grated fresh or frozen coconut
1 teaspoon urad dhal
1 teaspoon split chick pea (channa dhal)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
Salt to taste
METHOD
Heat oil in a fry pan that has a lid. Once the oil is warm, add the urad dhal and split chick pea. Once they start to go a bit brown, add the cumin seeds. Allow cumin seeds to splutter, and then add the onions and green chillies. Fry 4 to 5 minutes until the onions are soft. Increase the heat while adding the beans and fry continuously for a couple of minutes, add salt, reduce heat and cover with lid.
Allow to cook on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, checking periodically by turning them over with a spatula. You may need to add a tablespoon of water but be careful not to add too much as this is a dry vegetable and does not have any residual liquid. Once the beans are cooked, adjust seasoning and add the grated coconut. Mix to combine and serve hot as a side dish to accompany your Indian meal. Serves 4 – 6.