Newari-style Spiced Kidney Bean Curry

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Lobio from Georgian cuisine to Newari cuisine, we incorporate the distinct flavors and spices of Newari cuisine. The original dish is typically prepared with Georgian spices like fenugreek and blue fenugreek, which are replaced with Newari spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Additionally, the traditional Georgian walnut paste is substituted with a blend of aromatic spices to enhance the flavors of the kidney beans. We alse have the original recipe for Lobio, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) kidney beans, soaked overnight 2 cups (400g) kidney beans, soaked overnight
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Drain and rinse the soaked kidney beans.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Stir in the cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and red chili powder. Cook for a minute to toast the spices.
5. 5.
   Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and well combined with the spices.
6. 6.
   Add the soaked kidney beans to the pot and pour enough water to cover the beans.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste and bring the mixture to a boil.
8. 8.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the kidney beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
9. 9.
   Once cooked, garnish the curry with fresh cilantro.
10. 10.
    Serve the Newari-style Spiced Kidney Bean Curry hot with steamed rice or traditional Newari bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Kidney beans — Ensure that the kidney beans are soaked overnight to soften them and reduce cooking time.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier curry, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
• To add a tangy twist, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the curry before serving.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can partially blend the curry using an immersion blender.

Serving advice

Serve the Newari-style Spiced Kidney Bean Curry hot with steamed rice or traditional Newari bread. Accompany it with a side of pickles or yogurt for a refreshing contrast.

Presentation advice

Garnish the curry with a sprig of fresh cilantro and serve it in a traditional Newari bowl or plate to enhance the visual appeal. Pair it with a side of steamed rice arranged in a mound for an authentic presentation.