Curried Green Beans and Onions: The Perfect Braai Side Dish and Salad Recipe

Imagine sitting outside, the sun setting, and you've got a plate full of vibrant, curried green bean salad. This dish, with its tangy curry sauce, is a match made in heaven for the sweet green beans. You'll need about 500g of french beans also known as string beans, 1 onion and some spices, brown sugar and wine vinegar. The beauty of this salad is that it's served at room temperature, making it an exceptional choice for south african outdoor meals.

Getting your green beans to the perfect al dente texture is key. You want them cooked but still with a bit of crunch to stand up to the curry dressing. The process isn't complicated; boil your beans briefly, then plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process and lock in that gorgeous green color. After that, it's all about tossing them with your smooth paste, curried sauce and the 1 medium onion, finely chopped. The fried onion add a sweet depth that balances the curry's spice sauce ingredients wonderfully.

What's great about this curried green bean salad is its simplicity and the burst of flavors it brings to your plate. It doesn't just add a pop of color to your braai spread; it introduces a melody of sweet and sour, and spicy notes that complement grilled meats beautifully. Whether you're a seasoned chef or trying something new, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser at your next outdoor gathering.

Curried Green Beans Braai Side Dish

Bringing a South African twist to your table, the curry green bean salad serves 6 and is a delightful balance of sweet and sour flavors, ready in just 50 minutes. It's not just a braai side dish; it's an experience that elevates your braai to new heights. The unique blend of spices and the freshness of the vegetables make it an unforgettable addition to your south african outdoor dining.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try for Your Next Braai

This recipe stands out for its sweet and sour profile, a hallmark of culinary delight. The combination of beans and thinly sliced onions, tossed in a flavorful curry sauce, makes for a side dish that complements any main course beautifully. It's a must-try for those looking to add a tangy twist to their braai.

Why Curried Green Beans & Onions Make the Perfect Braai Side Dish

A Flavorful Addition to Your Braai Spread

When it comes to braais, side dishes play a crucial role in complementing the main event. Curried Green Beans and Onions bring a burst of vibrant flavor that elevates any braai spread. The unique blend of curry spices, combined with the freshness of green beans and the sweetness of caramelized fried onion, adds depth and richness to your meal. Whether you're serving steaks, chicken, or sausages, this side dish acts as the perfect contrast, providing a tangy yet slightly sweet flavor profile that enhances the grilled flavors of your meats.

The Versatility of Curried Green Beans with Grilled Meats

One of the standout features of this curried green bean salad is its versatility. The bold and aromatic curry flavors pair wonderfully with a variety of grilled meats, making it an adaptable side dish for any braai. Whether you're grilling chicken, pork, or beef, the zesty and aromatic flavors of the curried green beans cut through the richness of the grilled meats, offering a refreshing balance. 

A Spicy Twist on Traditional Side Dishes

While traditional braai sides like potato salad and coleslaw have their place, adding a spicy twist with Curried Green Beans and Onions sets your spread apart. The combination of spices, including curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, brings warmth and complexity that instantly transforms a simple green bean dish into something special. The added touch of chili flakes (if you like a little heat) gives it a bold, satisfying kick that contrasts beautifully with the smoky, charred flavors of the grilled meats. This dish offers a perfect balance of spice and freshness, making it an exciting change from the usual braai side dishes.

Serving Suggestions for a Perfect Curried Green Beans Braai Side Dish

Pairing Curried Green Beans with Braai Mains

Curried Green Beans and Onions are the ideal companion to a wide range of braai mains. Their bold, spicy flavors enhance grilled meats like chicken, steak, and pork chops, offering a vibrant contrast to the smoky, charred textures of the meat. The freshness of the green beans, combined with the rich, aromatic spices, german mustard, creates a well-rounded balance when served alongside grilled sausages, ribs, or even vegetarian and vegan kebabs. Their savory and slightly sweet flavor profile makes them adaptable to different types of meat, ensuring that every bite is perfectly complemented.

Top Braai Sides for Summer

To complete your braai feast, consider adding a few more side dishes that will complement your curried green beans. Here are some additional ideas:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and slightly charred, grilled corn is a perfect match for curried green beans. Its natural sweetness balances out the spice and adds texture to the meal.

2. Tangy Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing, light salad made with fresh cucumbers and tomatoes tossed in a citrusy dressing provides a cool contrast to the spicy curried green beans.

3. Braai Breads: Soft, warm braai breads or naan are great for soaking up any extra curry sauce from the green beans, adding a delightful texture to your meal.

4. Potato Salad with Fresh Herbs: A creamy potato salad made with fresh herbs like dill or parsley will offer a mild, cool contrast to the spices of the green beans.

5. Charred Vegetables: Add some extra grilled veggies, like zucchini, bell peppers, and aubergine, which bring a smokiness that complements the flavors of the curried beans.
   
   

Perfect Pairings for Summer Braais and Gatherings

When planning for a summer braai, it's important to serve dishes that reflect the light, fresh, and vibrant flavors of the season. Curried Green Beans and Onions not only bring a unique flavor to the table but also pair perfectly with summer beverages. Serve them with cold craft beers, refreshing lemonades, or even a crisp white wine to balance the heat and spice. For dessert, a light citrus sorbet or fruit salad would be the perfect finish to your meal, offering a refreshing end to the bold flavors of the braai.

Why You’ll Love This Curried Green Beans and Onions Recipe

A Simple Yet Flavor-Packed Side Dish

This Curried Green Beans and Onions recipe brings together a simple mix of fresh green beans, onions, and spices, transforming them into a flavorful and aromatic side dish. The combination of curry powder, turmeric, and cumin infuses the beans with a rich, exotic flavor profile that’s sure to excite your taste buds. It’s a side dish that doesn't require complex ingredients or preparation, yet it delivers a taste experience that’s anything but ordinary.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best things about this recipe is its speed and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready to serve in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re preparing for a weeknight dinner or a special braai gathering, this recipe allows you to focus on other parts of your meal while it cooks up quickly. Its straightforward preparation ensures that even novice cooks can enjoy crafting a delicious, homemade braai side dish.

A Crowd-Pleasing, Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Curried Green Beans and Onions are perfect for family gatherings, braais, and picnics alike. The bold, yet balanced, flavor makes it a hit with guests of all ages, from children to adults. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile — you can easily customize it with your choice of spices, herbs, or additional ingredients like roasted garlic or cherry tomatoes. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled meats, vegetarian mains, or enjoying it on its own, this dish will quickly become a crowd favorite for any occasion.

Curried Green Beans & Onion Salad Recipe

Cooking ime 20 - 30 minutes. Makes about 750 ml. Serves 4-6 people.

A vibrant and flavorful braai side dish, this Curried Green Bean and Onion Salad combines the earthiness of green beans with the aromatic punch of curry spices, offering a unique twist on your traditional side dishes.

Salad Ingredients

• 500g fresh green beans/string beans, trimmed

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or sunflower oil

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds or 1 tsp, german mustard

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon curry powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon cornflour (mixed with 2 teaspoons water to make a cornflour mixture)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh coriander or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and stir for about 4-5 minutes until beans start to soften and are just tender but still bright green and al dente. Drain the beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again after a minute and set aside.

2. Heat the oil & cook the Spices:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds or German mustard and cumin seeds. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the seeds start to pop and release their aroma.

Add the 1 onion chopped and minced garlic clove to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and turn golden brown.

3. Add the Curry Spices:
Sprinkle in the ground turmeric, ground coriander, curry powder, chili flakes (if using), and cinnamon. Stir the spices into the fried onion and garlic mixture, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked green beans to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the flavorful curry mixture.

5. Add the Corn flour mixture and the Sauce Ingredients:
Stir in the 2 tbsp white wine vinegar or 2 tbsp lemon juice and brown sugar. Mix well, then pour in the cornflour mixture and stirring until thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:
Once cooled, transfer the salad to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh coriander or parsley for a burst of color and extra freshness.

Tips for a Perfect Curried Green Bean and Onion Salad:

• For Extra Crunch: Add some chopped nuts (like cashews or almonds) or raisins for sweetness and texture.

• Make It Ahead: This salad is perfect for prepping ahead. Prepare it a few hours or even the day before your braai for deeper flavor infusion.

• Bottled Pickled Curry Beans: Batch to bottle and preserve to store longer in advance.

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer, reducing the turmeric and curry powder or chili flakes will provide a milder flavour. For more heat, increase the chili flakes or add a fresh chili.
  
  

This Curried Green Bean and Onion Salad adds a zesty, aromatic flair to any meal, making it the perfect side dish for your next braai gathering!

How to Batch to Bottle and Preserve Curry Bean Salad

Preserving your bottled pickled curry beans is an excellent way to enjoy this flavorful side dish for weeks to come. Bottling not only extends its shelf life but also enhances the flavor as the ingredients marinate over time. Follow these simple steps to batch to bottle and preserve your salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Salad as Usual

• Follow the recipe to cook the curried green beans & onion salad.

• Allow the dish to cool completely before moving to the bottling process. Hot ingredients can create condensation, leading to spoilage.

• The recipe makes around 750 ml - 800 ml of salad including sauce ingredients.

• Set aside preserving bottles for 3 x 250 ml bottles or 1-2 x 500 ml jars.
  
  

Step 2: Sterilized Bottles Seal with Lids

• Wash your glass jars and lids thoroughly with hot, soapy water.

• Sterilize them by placing the glass jars in boiling water for 10 minutes, ensuring they are fully submerged. Alternatively, you can run them through a hot dishwasher cycle without detergent.

• Allow the jars to air dry upside down on a clean kitchen towel. Ensure they are completely dry before use.
  
  

Step 3: Pack the Salad into Glass Jars

• Spoon the cooled curried salad into the sterilized bottles and seal, leaving about 1 cm (½ inch) of headspace at the top.

• Use a spoon to gently press down the salad, ensuring there are no air pockets.

• Pour any leftover curry sauce over the salad to fully submerge it. This acts as a natural preservative and enhances flavor.
  
  

Step 4: Sterilized bottles and seal

• Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. This ensures a proper seal.

• Tightly screw on the sterilized lids, but avoid over-tightening.
  
  

Step 5: Create a Vacuum Seal

• Place the sealed jars in a large pot with enough water to cover them completely.

• Bring the water to a boil and let the jars process for 10 minutes – 15 mins. This heat creates a vacuum seal and prevents bacteria from spoiling the salad.

• Carefully remove the jars and let them cool at room temperature. You’ll hear a "pop" sound as the lids seal properly.
  
  

Step 6: Label and Store Curried Bean Salad

• Once the jars have cooled, label them with the date of bottling.

• Store the jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Properly sealed beans can be stored can last up to 3 months.

• After opening, beans can be stored in the fridge and consume within 5–7 days.
  
  

Tips for Successful Bottling of Curry Green Bean Salad

• Use wine vinegar or lemon juice generously in the recipe to maintain acidity, which helps preserve the salad.

• Always use fresh vegetables for bottling to ensure quality and safety.

• Inspect jars for cracks and lids for any damage before using.

By bottling your Curried Green Beans & Onion Salad, you’ll always have a flavorful, ready-to-serve braai side dish at your fingertips!

Tips and Variations: Curried Green Beans & Onion Salad

Add Lemon for Extra Zing

For a fresh burst of brightness, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. The acidity from the lemon perfectly complements the rich spices in the curry, enhancing the overall flavor and adding a tangy contrast to the dish. If you're a fan of citrus, a zest of lemon can also be sprinkled over the top for an extra layer of fresh flavor.

A Must-Try Braai Side Dish for Every Gathering

The Curried Green Beans and Onions recipe is a standout at any braai. Its perfect balance of spices, crunch, and vibrant color makes it a versatile and exciting side dish that pairs well with any grilled meat or veggie main. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, holiday feast, or casual gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Its easy preparation and ability to complement a variety of mains make it a must-try addition to your braai spread.

Get Creative and Experiment with Your Own Braai Side Dishes

The beauty of braai side dishes is the room for creativity! Don’t hesitate to experiment with new ingredients and flavor combinations. Think beyond the usual salads and roasted vegetables—try adding sweet potatoes, charred corn, or roasted bell peppers to your repertoire. You can even switch up your spices to introduce cumin, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like parsley and mint. By getting creative with your braai sides, you’ll elevate your gatherings with unique and unforgettable flavors.

FAQ Section

Can I Make the Curry Green Bean Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can absolutely make Curried Green Beans and Onions ahead of time! In fact, allowing the dish to sit for a few hours—or even overnight—helps the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious. Simply prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, you can reheat it in a pan or microwave, or even enjoy it cold as part of a braai salad.

What Other Vegetables Can I Use with This Recipe?

While green beans and onions are the stars of this dish, you can experiment with other vegetables to suit your taste or seasonal availability. Consider adding carrots, baby potatoes, cauliflower, or even sweet bell peppers. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, so feel free to mix and match to create a veggie medley that works perfectly for your braai spread.