Dry Shrimp and Broad Beans Fry | Tamil Nadu Style Recipe

Chenna Kunni, or dried tiny shrimps, are a staple in Tamil Nadu, often combined with vegetables to make a delicious poriyal (fry). This recipe pairs Chenna Kunni with Avarai (broad beans) to create a high-protein side dish that complements rice perfectly. It’s a dish that not only tastes great but also provides a good amount of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Table of Contents

Dry Shrimp & Broad Beans Fry | Traditional Chenna Kunni Avarai Poriyal

Ingredients

Chenna Kunni (Dried Shrimps): 80-100g
Avarai (Broad Beans): 500g
Onions (Vengayam): 2, sliced
Tomatoes: 2, pulsed
Kashmiri Chilli Powder: 2 tsp
Cumin Powder (Jeera Powder): ½ tsp
Turmeric Powder (Haldi Powder): ½ tsp
Vegetable Oil (Tel): 2 tbsp
Salt (Namak): 2 tsp
Water (Paani): Approximately 1 ½ cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chenna Kunni

Wash the dried shrimps thoroughly in water to remove any dirt or debris. As they float, squeeze them dry to remove excess water.

Step 2: Prepare the Broad Beans

Remove the strings from the broad beans to take out the fibre. Cut them into small squares, about 3 cm in size.

Step 3: Boil the Broad Beans

Boil the beans in water with 1 tsp salt until they become tender. This should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on their size.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Spices

Heat oil in a non-stick kadai or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and fry until they become translucent. Then, add the pulsed tomatoes and fry until the volume is reduced to half. Add Kashmiri chilli powder, cumin powder, and turmeric powder. Stir well on low heat to allow the spices to release their aroma.

Step 5: Add Chenna Kunni

Add the dried shrimps to the kadai and fry until the mixture becomes dry. This helps to enhance the flavor of the shrimps.

Step 6: Combine with Broad Beans

Add the cooked broad beans with their cooking water to the kadai. Stir well and adjust salt to taste. Make sure the mixture is not too dry; if needed, add a bit more water.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Cook until the mixture is almost dry. Remove from heat and serve hot.

Chenna Kunni and Avarai Poriyal is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the high protein of dried shrimps with the fiber and vitamins of broad beans. This recipe is perfect for those looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a traditional Tamil Nadu dish. It’s easy to make and can be served with rice or roti for a satisfying meal.