Green Beans with Coconut - Indian Style

For those of you that enjoy Indian food, this recipe is for you. It has all the classic elements of sweet and heat, and is very simple to make.

The original recipe calls for ghee - which is a clarified butter used in Indian cookery. I have modified the recipe for vegetable oil. However, should you desire to use ghee it can be found in many of the larger grocers in the international food aisle or at the local Indian grocer.

I always advocate the use of fresh produce whenever possible. During the off season (when the green beans are not as fresh and more expensive), you can use a 10oz to 12 oz bag of frozen French cut green beans. But always aim for the freshest ingredients if you can find them and afford them.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, French cut
• 1 green chili, minced
• 2/3 cup unsweetened dried coconut
• 4 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp lemon pepper
• 1/2 tsp ginger, minced
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste

Process:

1. Soak unsweetened dry coconut in 1 cup hot water - when rehydrated - drain liquid and retain coconut for use
   
   
2. In a large pan heat oil
   
   
3. Add ginger and chili and sauté until aromatic (about 1 to 2 mins)
   
   
4. Add turmeric, salt and lemon pepper - stir to incorporate
   
   
5. Lower heat and add green beans - cover and cook until softened ( about 6 to 8 mins)
   
   
6. Add coconut and a few tablespoons of water if dry
   
   
7. Simmer green beans for an additional 10 minutes