Sri Lankan Vegetable Curry Variety (Avial)
A vibrant and flavorful mixed vegetable curry, often prepared with a coconut-milk-based gravy and a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is a staple in Sri Lankan households, showcasing the island's rich agricultural produce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 750 g Mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, beans, potatoes, eggplant, drumsticks, pumpkin)(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 large Onion(sliced)
- 3-4 medium Green chilies(slit lengthwise)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp Curry powder (Sri Lankan style)
- 1 tsp Chili powder(adjust to taste)
- 400 ml Thick coconut milk
- 200 ml Thin coconut milk or water
- 10-15 leaves Curry leaves
- 1 tsp Mustard seeds
- 2 tbsp Coconut oil
- to taste Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and curry leaves. Let the mustard seeds splutter.
- 2
Add sliced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add turmeric powder, curry powder, and chili powder. Stir well and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add all the mixed vegetables and slit green chilies to the pot. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spice mixture.
- 5
Pour in the thin coconut milk (or water). Add salt to taste. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- 6
Pour in the thick coconut milk. Stir gently and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, ensuring it doesn't boil vigorously, to allow the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken slightly.
- 7
Adjust salt if needed. Serve hot with rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a variety of seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Do not overcook the vegetables; they should retain a slight bite.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference.
- ✓Ensure the thick coconut milk is added towards the end and not boiled vigorously to prevent curdling.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of roasted curry powder for a deeper flavor.
- Include a few pieces of ripe banana for a subtle sweetness.
- Garnish with fried curry leaves or toasted coconut flakes.