Ingredients:

• 2 cups green beans, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 inch piece ginger, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• A few curry leaves (optional)
• 1 tablespoon grated coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • Wash and chop the green beans into small pieces.
   • Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic and ginger.
   • Slit the green chilies lengthwise.
2. Cooking:
   • Heat oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.
   • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
   • Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
   • Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the slit green chilies and curry leaves (if using), and sauté for a few seconds.
   • Add the chopped green beans and mix well.
   • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix to coat the beans with the spices.
   • Sprinkle a little water over the beans, cover the pan, and let it cook on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender but still slightly crisp. Add more water if necessary to prevent sticking.
3. Finishing:
   • Once the beans are cooked, uncover the pan and cook for a few more minutes to evaporate any excess moisture.
   • If using grated coconut, add it now and mix well.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Serving:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
   • Serve the beans fry hot with rice, roti, or as a side dish with any main course.

Tips:

• For added flavor, you can also add a pinch of garam masala towards the end of cooking.
• Ensure not to overcook the beans; they should remain slightly crisp to retain their nutritional value.
• You can also add a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture.
• Adjust the spice levels by varying the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your preference.