Guar gum is derived from the guar bean, also known as the cluster bean. Guar is a green bean that can be eaten, but it is more important as a source of guar gum. The body of young, fresh cluster beans is narrow and long, with tiny pods. They are a well-known vegetable. They are indigenous to India and are widely cultivated not only in Andra but also in other parts of the country (dry, warm and arid regions). Young plants are harvested for use as vegetables. The mature pods - the seeds - are harvested to be dried and powdered into guar gum flour. Guar gum is a thickening agent used in commercial food preparations such as ice cream. Cluster beans are not only low in calories, but they also help to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Rajasthan produces the majority of India's guar, which is harvested between October and November. However, this vegetable is available in most markets all year.
Here is a list of recipes you can make for dinner using gavarfali or cluster beans.
1. Sindhi Kadhi
The most popular Sindhi dish served with chawal is Sindhi kadhi. Sindhi kadhi is a vegetarian curry made with besan. With their Sindhi kadhi chawal, a Sindhi household staple. Sindhi Kadhi Chawal is a popular wedding dish due to its quick preparation time and large quantity.
Sindhi kadhi is made with gavarfali, potatoes, drumstick, bhindi, a small amount of besan, and Indian spices. Sindhi kadhi is one such dish in which all of the vegetables complement each other in taste, colour, and texture. Sindhis enjoy eating Sindhi Kadhi with hot steamed chawal.
2. Gavarfali Ki Sukhi Subzi
Is it the magic of our Indian everyday spices or the preparation methods that make the Gavarfali ki Sukhi Subzi so delicious? A masaledar preparation of cluster beans made with common ingredients found in most kitchens, such as ginger, green chillies, cumin seeds, garlic, and so on. Remember to add the ingredients in the order listed to ensure that the aroma and flavour of the vegetable, as well as each spice and powder, is fully retained to enchant your taste buds.
3. Gavarfali Curry
The Gavarfali ki Subzi is a nice and soft subzi with a strong curd flavour. It has a well-balanced flavour that is soothing yet spicy. While cooking the cluster beans, add a little baking soda to keep the colour and ensure that they are thoroughly cooked. The combination of cumin and fennel seeds in the tempering is what gives this subzi its distinct and memorable flavour, so don't skip it when making it.
4. Pumpkin Gavarfali Subzi
Cluster beans are beneficial to diabetics because they have the highest fibre content of any vegetable, preventing a rapid rise in blood sugar levels after a meal. Pumpkin is added to thicken the gravy and adds a natural sweetness to this delectable dish. You may not have tried this vegetable combination before, but do not hesitate to do so now because it will definitely please your palate.
5. Kothamara Thoran
This simple cluster bean recipe originated in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, where coconut is abundant and considered a kalpavruksh (divine tree). The richness of coconut and jaggery, as well as the steamed cooking process, help retain nutrients, making it worthwhile. It is a quick and easy recipe that takes only 40 minutes to prepare.
