Trinidadian “Fry Bodi” (Stir-Fry Long Green Beans | Bora Recipe )

Long green beans are also known as bora, long padded cow peas, asparagus bean, snake bean or Chinese long bean, but in Trinidad we proudly call it bodi (pronounced bo-dee).

This recipe for “Fry Bodi” is actually long green beans stir fried with tomatoes, onions and garlic. Cooking bodi past the steaming point brings out the intense flavor of the green bean. It’s juicy, tender, yet crunchy. The onion which somehow gets caramelized in the process and the tomato add a burst of flavor and both lend a natural sweetness to the dish. Sometimes salted fish or potatoes can also be added to this recipe for variety.

It always amazes me that in our Caribbean food culture we use the simplest ingredients to create the most delightful vegetarian dishes that even kids enjoy. Another favorite in my house with adults and kids alike,  I prepare “fry bodi” for a weekend breakfast and serve it with roti or fried bake. Sometimes I serve it as a veggie side to curried or stewed dishes.

I always have to make a special trip to the Asian supermarket in Brooklyn or to Liberty Ave, Queens for these long green beans, but it is definitely worth the trek. I also use these long green beans in curries, fried rice or stir-fries(including chow mein).

Watch YouTube Video for this recipe here:



Fry Bodi/Long Green Beans Recipe 
Serves 4-6

Ingredients

1 bunch long green beans, washed, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces, about 1 1/2 pounds
2 very ripe, medium plum tomatoes, diced
1 medium onion, sliced
7 large garlic cloves, crushed (about 2 tbs crushed)
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Hot pepper-optional (habanero or scotch bonnet)
Salt-to taste