Sabzi and thoran: Maunika Gowardhan’s recipes for Indian-style runner beans
AIThis post was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).

TL;DR

AUDIBLE

Listen free for 30 days with Audible

Thousands of audiobooks and originals — cancel anytime.

Start your free trial

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Celebrity chef Maunika Gowardhan has shared two traditional Indian recipes using runner beans—sabzi from Rajasthan and thoran from Kerala. These dishes showcase regional spice profiles and cooking techniques, emphasizing the versatility of runner beans in Indian cuisine.

Celebrity chef Maunika Gowardhan has shared two traditional Indian recipes for runner beans, one from Rajasthan and the other from Kerala, to showcase regional flavors and cooking styles. These recipes, published in her latest book, aim to inspire home cooks to incorporate seasonal vegetables into Indian cuisine, emphasizing regional diversity and culinary techniques.

The first recipe, beans phali ki sabzi, is a summer dish from Rajasthan featuring runner beans cooked with ginger, dried mango powder, and spices like cumin and turmeric, finished with mustard oil for pungency. It is served with rice or chapatis and yogurt. The second recipe, runner bean thoran, is a Kerala side dish that uses coconut, curry leaves, and mustard seeds, stir-fried with green chilies and onions, then finished with lemon juice and coriander. Gowardhan emphasizes that coconut oil enhances the flavor in the thoran, aligning with traditional Kerala cooking.

Gowardhan’s recipes highlight the regional spice profiles—dry mango powder and chili in Rajasthan, coconut and curry leaves in Kerala—demonstrating how runner beans can be adapted to different Indian culinary traditions. She notes that these dishes are straightforward, requiring about 15-30 minutes of prep and cooking, making them accessible for home cooks.

At a glance
reportWhen: published July 6, 2026
The developmentMaunika Gowardhan has published two new recipes for Indian-style runner beans, highlighting regional variations from Rajasthan and Kerala, to inspire home cooks.

Regional Flavors Elevate Simple Runner Beans

These recipes demonstrate the versatility of runner beans within Indian cuisine, highlighting regional differences that can inspire home cooks to explore diverse flavors. They also promote seasonal eating and the use of fresh, regional ingredients, enriching the culinary experience and encouraging cultural appreciation of Indian regional dishes.
Authentic Indian Spice 12 Spice Set: Assorted Spices, Herbs, and Seasonings

Authentic Indian Spice 12 Spice Set: Assorted Spices, Herbs, and Seasonings

  • Versatile Spice Set: Includes a variety of spices and herbs
  • Gift-Ready Packaging: Beautifully packaged for gifting
  • Freshness Guaranteed: Carefully sourced and packaged for freshness

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Indian Regional Recipes for Seasonal Vegetables

Runner beans are a seasonal vegetable popular in Indian cooking, with regional variations in preparation. Gowardhan’s recipes reflect traditional methods from Rajasthan and Kerala, regions with distinct spice profiles and cooking techniques. Such recipes are part of a broader trend to celebrate regional diversity in Indian cuisine, especially as seasonal vegetables become more accessible in global markets.

“These recipes showcase how regional ingredients and spices can transform simple vegetables into vibrant, flavorful dishes.”

— an anonymous researcher

Amazon Grocery, Organic Refined Coconut Oil, 15 Fl Oz

Amazon Grocery, Organic Refined Coconut Oil, 15 Fl Oz

  • Size: 15 Fl Oz container
  • Certification: USDA Organic
  • Verification: Non-GMO Project Verified

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Details on Ingredient Variations and Serving Suggestions

It is not yet clear how adaptable these recipes are to different dietary preferences or available ingredients outside India. Specific regional spice blends and ingredient substitutions have not been detailed, and the exact traditional serving accompaniments may vary by household.
Blue Runner Creole Cream Style Original Red Beans, 16 oz - Pack of 6

Blue Runner Creole Cream Style Original Red Beans, 16 oz – Pack of 6

  • Package Quantity: Six 16 oz cans
  • Product Style: Creole Cream Style
  • Cuisine Type: Red Beans and Rice

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Home Cooks to Experiment with Regional Runner Bean Recipes

Readers are encouraged to try Gowardhan’s recipes and adapt them with local ingredients. Future developments may include variations based on ingredient availability or dietary needs, and Gowardhan may release additional regional recipes or cooking tips to further inspire home cooks.
McCormick Gourmet Collection Yellow Mustard Seed, Organic, Non GMO, Our Best Herbs & Spices, Pungent Flavor for Pickled Vegetables, Potato Salad, Salad Dressings & More, 2.12 oz

McCormick Gourmet Collection Yellow Mustard Seed, Organic, Non GMO, Our Best Herbs & Spices, Pungent Flavor for Pickled Vegetables, Potato Salad, Salad Dressings & More, 2.12 oz

  • Herbs & Spices Collection: Over 70 curated herbs and spices
  • Organic & Non-GMO: Certified organic and non-GMO mustard seeds
  • Pungent Flavor: Sharp, pungent flavor for various dishes

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Key Questions

What are the main ingredients in Maunika Gowardhan’s runner bean recipes?

The main ingredients include runner beans, ginger, dried mango powder, spices such as cumin, turmeric, and chili, along with coconut, curry leaves, mustard seeds, and oil (mustard or coconut).

How long do these recipes take to prepare and cook?

Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, with cooking times around 15-30 minutes, making them suitable for quick weeknight meals.

Can these recipes be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets?

Yes, both recipes are plant-based. Using vegetable or coconut oil aligns with vegan preferences, and they can be served with rice, chapatis, or dal for a complete meal.

Are these recipes traditional or modern interpretations?

They are traditional recipes from Rajasthan and Kerala, adapted for modern home cooking, with Gowardhan emphasizing regional authenticity and simplicity.

Where can I find more recipes from Maunika Gowardhan?

Her latest book, Curry: Recipes from Indian Home Kitchens, provides additional recipes and cooking tips. It is available through various booksellers and online stores.

Source: Guardian Life

SUMMER

Summer Picks

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

You May Also Like

Whole Foods Surges In Global Coverage

Whole Foods experiences a surge in international media coverage, with 28 mentions this week, reflecting increased global interest in the brand.

Niklas Ekstedt Surges In Global Coverage

Niklas Ekstedt is experiencing a surge in international coverage, highlighting increased global interest in his culinary work and influence.

Chick Fil A Fall Menu Release

Chick-fil-A has officially announced its fall menu, featuring new seasonal items and returning favorites, starting September 2024.

NYC buildings evacuated after construction workers find buckling beams on 21st floor in Midtown East

Construction workers in Midtown East discovered buckling beams on the 21st floor of a building, leading to evacuation of nearby structures. Details are still emerging.