Vendakka Stew Recipe (Kerala Style Okra Stew)
Embark on a culinary journey to Kerala with this delicious Vendakka Stew, a traditional recipe that highlights the unique flavors of okra (bhindi) combined with the rich creaminess of coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this vegetarian stew is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant tastes of South Indian cuisine. Serve it with steamed rice or soft appams for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra) | 500 grams, cut into 1-inch pieces |
| Onion | 1 large |
| Green Chilli | 1, slit |
| Coconut milk (thick) | 1 cup |
| Ginger (grated) | 2 teaspoons |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Coconut oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 mins |
| Cooking Time | 15 mins |
| Total Time | 25 mins |
Servings
| Servings | 4 |
|---|
Cuisine
| Cuisine | Kerala Recipes |
|---|
Course
| Course | Dinner |
|---|
Diet
| Diet | Vegetarian |
|---|
Instructions
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Prepare the Okra: Begin your culinary adventure by washing and drying the okra thoroughly. Cut them into 1-inch pieces and set them aside. This step is crucial to ensure that the okra cooks evenly and maintains its texture in the stew.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter, releasing their nutty aroma. Once the mustard seeds begin to pop, add the curry leaves, letting them crisp up for added flavor.
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Cook the Onions: Introduce the sliced onion into the pan and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant. This should take about 2-3 minutes, creating a beautiful base for your stew.
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Add Ginger and Green Chilli: Stir in the grated ginger and slit green chilli, sautéing for an additional minute. The ginger adds a zesty warmth, while the green chilli gives the dish a subtle heat.
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Incorporate the Okra: Now, add the cut okra to the pan. Mix well, ensuring that the okra is coated with the flavorful oil and spices. Season the mixture with salt to taste, and sauté for approximately 10 minutes until the okra is halfway cooked and tender yet still slightly firm.
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Finish Cooking: Cover the pan with a lid and allow the okra to cook fully for another few minutes. This step ensures that the okra becomes perfectly tender without losing its structure.
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Add Coconut Milk: Once the okra is cooked, pour in the thick coconut milk along with one cup of water. Stir gently to combine, then bring the stew to a rolling boil. This will help meld the flavors together beautifully.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once boiled, switch off the flame and let the Vendakka Stew sit for a minute. Serve it hot alongside steamed rice or appams for a comforting and wholesome weeknight dinner.
Conclusion
This Vendakka Stew is a quintessential Kerala dish that showcases the goodness of okra, enhanced by the creaminess of coconut milk and the warmth of spices. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a delightful addition to any dinner table. Enjoy this dish with loved ones, and savor the rich, authentic tastes of Kerala in the comfort of your home.
