Cultural signature · Kerala

Traditional Avial

“A vibrant vegetable medley gently bound with coconut, yoghurt, and curry leaves.”

Prep
15m
Cook
20m
Serves
4 people
Spice
Mild
Traditional Kerala avial served on a banana leaf

Instructions

  1. 01

    Cook the firm vegetables

    Place yam, raw banana, and drumstick in a wide pot with turmeric, salt, and ½ cup water. Cover and cook for 6 minutes.

  2. 02

    Add tender vegetables

    Add the remaining vegetables and cook until every piece is tender but still holds its shape.

  3. 03

    Grind the coconut

    Pulse coconut, cumin, and green chillies with just enough water to make a coarse paste.

  4. 04

    Combine gently

    Fold the coconut paste through the vegetables and cook over low heat for 3 minutes.

  5. 05

    Finish without boiling

    Lower the heat and fold in the yoghurt. Turn off the heat before it boils, then add coconut oil and torn curry leaves.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with Kerala matta rice as part of a sadya.

The Story

Kerala’s harvest vegetables gathered into a quietly complex dish.