Beef Varala – A Spicy Kerala Beef Dry Fry Delight
Beef Varala, also known as Kerala-style beef dry fry, is a popular non-vegetarian delicacy. It captures the fiery, earthy essence of Kerala cuisine. Unlike beef curries or gravies, this dish is cooked until all the moisture evaporates and the beef turns beautifully roasted with intense flavors. It’s a favorite in homes, toddy shops, and roadside eateries across Kerala, loved for its bold spices and rustic aroma.
The Cultural Relevance In Kerala Cuisine
Beef has a special place in the culinary traditions of Kerala, especially among Christian and Muslim communities. The dish stands out as a cultural icon—prepared during festivals, family gatherings, and Sunday lunches. What makes this dish unique is not just the beef but the way it is roasted slowly with coconut oil, shallots, curry leaves, and an aromatic mix of crushed spices.
Ingredients That Define Beef Varala
The flavor profile is built on freshly ground spices like black pepper, fennel seeds, and coriander. Unlike regular beef fry, Varala typically uses minimal gravy and more of a dry-roast technique. The dish is finished with crisp fried coconut slivers, green chilies, and lots of curry leaves, adding a bite and fragrance that’s unmistakably Keralite.
Pairing Suggestions for the Perfect Meal
This dish is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with Kerala parotta, chapathi, appam, or even plain rice with moru curry. Some even enjoy it as a spicy snack with a glass of toddy or beer, thanks to its bold and spicy notes.
Final Thoughts
Beef Varala is more than just a dish—it’s an expression of Kerala’s love for deep, robust flavors. Whether you’re exploring regional Indian cuisine or planning a traditional Kerala meal, Beef Varala offers a spicy, soul-satisfying experience you won’t forget. You will love this unique and flavorful dish.
Beef Varala
Ingredients
- 1/2 Kg Beef
- 2 Nos. Onion
- 1/2 Tsp Turmeric powder
- 1/2 Cup Water
- 2 Tbsp Oil
- 1 Tbsp Ginger and garlic paste
- 2 Nos. Tomato
- 1 and 1/2 Tbsp Oil
- 3 Nos. Green chillies
- Curry leaves Few
- Salt As reqd
For Preparing Masala Powder:
- 1 Tbsp Pepper corns
- 1/2 Tsp Fennel seeds
- 2 Tbsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 Tsp Chilly powder
- 1/2 Tsp Garam masala powder
Instructions
- Wash, clean and drain the beef.
- Take a pressure cooker, add beef, onion, turmeric powder and salt as required.
- Combine well.
- Pour water as required. Pressure cook it for 5-6 whistles or until done.
- Mean while dry roast the ingredients that comes under the heading 'For Preparing Masala Powder'. Dry roast for 3 minutes and powder it after it gets cooled.
- Add chopped tomato and saute until soft.
- Now add masala powder and saute for one minute.
- Cover cook until the gravy thickens on medium to low flame.
- Finally heat 1 1/2 tbsp oil in a small pan add green chilly and curry leaves. Saute for few seconds and pour it over the gravy.
- Super tasty Beef Varala is ready now.
Notes
Prawns Roast With Coconut Milk
