Gavarichi Bhaji
A simple Maharashtrian cluster beans stir-fry with a gentle nuttiness from peanut and coconut. Soft-cooked gavar gets a light tempering and everyday spices, making it a comforting side for roti or dal-rice meals.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~8 min
Prepare the gavar.
1.Wash the cluster beans well.2.Trim both ends and pull away any tough side strings.3.Chop the beans into small even pieces so they cook quickly. - temper · ~2 min
Make the tempering.
1.Heat oil in a kadai over medium heat.2.Add mustard seeds and let them crackle.3.Add cumin seeds and asafoetida.4.Add green chili and garlic, then stir for 30 seconds.TIPKeep the heat medium so the garlic turns fragrant without burning. - saute · ~5 min
Cook the onion.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and lightly golden, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- saute · ~2 min
Add the beans and spices.
1.Add the chopped cluster beans and mix well.2.Sprinkle in turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.3.Stir for 1 to 2 minutes so the beans are coated well. - simmer · ~12 min
Cover and cook until tender.
Add water, mix once, cover, and cook on low heat until the cluster beans are tender but not mushy. Stir once or twice in between.
TIPIf the pan looks dry before the beans soften, add 1 to 2 tablespoons more water, not a big splash. - saute · ~3 min
Finish with peanut, coconut, and jaggery.
Add the crushed peanuts, desiccated coconut, and jaggery. Cook uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes until the bhaji turns lightly dry and everything comes together.
- garnish
Add lemon juice and coriander leaves.
Turn off the heat, then mix in lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves for a fresh finish.
- serve
Serve hot.
Serve Gavarichi Bhaji warm with roti, bhakri, or a simple dal-rice meal.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Remove the side strings well before chopping, or the gavar can stay fibrous even after cooking.
- 2Cut the cluster beans into small even pieces so they soften at the same rate and absorb the masala better.
- 3Do not add too much water while simmering; this bhaji tastes best when finished lightly dry, not stewy.
- 4Add the crushed peanuts only after the beans are tender so they stay nutty instead of turning pasty.
- 5Mix in lemon juice only after switching off the heat to keep its fresh, bright edge.
- 6If your cluster beans are mature and slightly bitter, cook them a few extra minutes and do not skip the jaggery.
- 7This bhaji keeps well for lunchboxes; cool fully before packing so the coconut and peanuts do not get soggy.
Adapt it for your goals.
Jain
Skip onion and garlic, increase asafoetida slightly, and use a little extra peanut-coconut for body while keeping the Maharashtrian flavor profile.
spicierSpicier
Add one extra green chili or a bit more red chili powder if you want a sharper, more traditional heat with bhakri or roti.
fresh coconutFresh-coconut
Use fresh grated coconut instead of desiccated for a softer, sweeter finish and a more festive homemade taste.
low oilLow-oil
Reduce the oil slightly and cook covered on low heat, adding tiny splashes of water as needed for a lighter everyday sabzi.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Fiber-Rich Vegetable Side
Cluster beans and onion make this bhaji a satisfying side that adds plant fiber and texture to a meal.
Healthy Fats From Peanuts
Crushed peanuts contribute nourishing fats and some plant protein, making the stir-fry more filling.
Plant-Based Everyday Dish
Made from vegetables, spices, peanut, and coconut, this bhaji fits well into simple vegetarian home-style meals.
Frequently asked questions
Cluster beans naturally have a mild bitterness. Proper trimming, cooking until tender, and finishing with jaggery and lemon help balance that taste.



