Indian CuisineIndian FoodDurban Indian

Butter Beans Curry

Make authentic Butter Beans Curry with this foolproof recipe. Packed with rich traditional flavor, step-by-step photos, and cooking tips by Denisiya on EatMee Recipes.

4.9·40 reader ratings
Rate this recipe:
D
By DenisiyaPublished on April 23, 2017
Butter Beans Curry
⏱️
Prep Time20 mins
🍳
Cook Time6 mins
⌛
Total Time26 mins
🍽️
ServingsServes 4-6
Denisiya on YouTube @eatmeerecipes
@eatmeerecipesOfficial Channel

Cook Along With Denisiya on YouTube

Join over 60,000+ home chefs for weekly authentic Durban Indian cook-alongs, Instant Pot masterclasses, and family heritage recipes.

Subscribe (Free)60,000+ Subscribers • 900+ Videos

This Indian Food Recipe Serves 2-3

🥗

Ingredients

Scale:
Base Yield: Serves 4-6
Advertisement
👩‍🍳

Step-by-Step Instructions

20 Steps
  1. Step 1

    Peel & chop the onion.

    Step 1 visual guide
  2. Step 2

    Rinse and slit the green chillies.

    Step 2 visual guide
  3. Step 3

    Cut the tomatoes in halves and grate the flesh off the tomatoes.

    Step 3 visual guide
  4. Step 4

    Discard the peels.

    Step 4 visual guide
  5. Step 5

    Peel the potatoes and quarter them.

    Step 5 visual guide
  6. Step 6

    To a pot on medium heat, add cokking oil, chopped onions, thyme, green chillies, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, star anise and cumin (jeera) seeds.

    Step 6 visual guide
  7. Step 7

    Stir and allow the onions to sauté until translucent.

    Step 7 visual guide
  8. Step 8

    Once the onions are translucent, add in turmeric powder, clove powder, coriander (dhania powder), cumin (jeera) powder, garam masala, chilli powder and ginger and garlic paste.

    Step 8 visual guide
  9. Step 9

    Mix and simmer for a minute.

    Step 9 visual guide
  10. Step 10

    Thereafter, add in the grated tomatoes.

    Step 10 visual guide
  11. Step 11

    Mix and allow to cook for 3 minutes.

    Step 11 visual guide
  12. Step 12

    After 3 minutes, add in the potatoes and enough water to allow the potatoes to cook.

    Step 12 visual guide
  13. Step 13

    Give it a stir.

    Step 13 visual guide
  14. Step 14

    Cover and cook until the potatoes are almost soft.

    Step 14 visual guide
  15. Step 15

    Next, bring out the canned butter beans, rinse and strain the beans.

    Step 15 visual guide
  16. Step 16

    Add the beans to the pot with curry leaves, fresh coriander and salt to taste. Add water if needed.

    Step 16 visual guide
  17. Step 17

    Mix well, cover and allow to cook until the potatoes are completely soft – almost melting.

    Step 17 visual guide
  18. Step 18

    Once the potatoes are soft, garnish with fresh coriander (dhania) and serve.

    Step 18 visual guide
  19. Step 19

    Serve this Butter Beans Curry with rice, roti, puri or bread & salads or pickle.

    Step 19 visual guide
  20. Step 20

    The puri recipe can be found here: https://eatmeerecipes.co.za/indian-food/soft-puri/

    Step 20 visual guide
💡

Mum's Pro Tips

Dried beans?

Soak 1 cup overnight and cook until soft before using.

Add a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.

For a smoky twist, finish with a dash of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke.

Want it thicker? Mash a few beans in the curry with a spoon and let it simmer a bit longer.

Video Tutorial

Watch How It's Made

Follow along with Denisiya's step-by-step video guide for Butter Beans Curry.

Advertisement

Frequently Asked Questions & Cooking Tips

Expert kitchen guidance and troubleshooting for making the best Butter Beans Curry

Why You’ll Love This Curry?

Butter beans are an excellent source of plant protein and fiber. Paired with warming spices, this curry becomes a nourishing meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s freezer-friendly, meal-prep-approved, and perfect for cozy nights or quick weeknight dinners.

How do I make the curry gravy thick and rich in Butter Beans Curry?

A combination of finely chopped braised onions, pureed or grated tomatoes, and allowing the gravy to simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes helps reduce and thicken the sauce to a rich coating consistency.

Can I freeze leftover Butter Beans Curry?

Yes, this curry freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Note: If freezing, omit or remove the potatoes as their texture changes when frozen. You can easily add fresh boiled potatoes when reheating!

Denisiya - Founder & Chef at EatMee Recipes
About the Creator

Meet Denisiya

Hi, I'm Denisiya! Food lover, recipe developer, and founder of EatMee Recipes. I specialize in authentic South African Durban Indian cuisine, comforting curries, and modern Instant Pot adaptations. Every recipe on this site is tested in my personal kitchen to ensure you get mouth-watering, foolproof results every time.

Comments & Community

0

Have you tried this recipe or have questions for Denisiya? Join the conversation below.

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this recipe!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *