Pyaz Wali Bhindi Recipe | Bhindi Do Pyaza – Okra Onion Stir Fry
Introduction
In the realm of Indian cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of home cooking quite like Pyaz Wali Bhindi, or Bhindi Do Pyaza. This delightful okra and onion stir-fry is a staple in many households, cherished for its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and the unique texture of the ladyfinger. With minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques, this dish not only stands out as a comforting meal but also offers a taste of tradition, making it an ideal choice for both lunch and dinner.
Ingredients
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the ingredients required to create this delicious dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra) | 500 grams |
| Mustard oil or Sunflower oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon stick (broken) | 2 inches |
| Bay leaf (tej patta) | 1 |
| Onions (thinly sliced) | 3 |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon (or more to taste) |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Okra
Begin by washing the bhindi thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Once cleaned, pat them dry using a kitchen towel to ensure they are moisture-free. This step is crucial, as excess water can lead to sliminess when cooking. Next, remove the stem of each okra and slice them into thin strips, ideally cutting each ladyfinger into four pieces. Set the chopped okra aside until you are ready to cook.
Step 2: Heating the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan or skillet, heat the mustard oil (or sunflower oil) over medium heat. The choice of oil can significantly influence the flavor of the dish; mustard oil adds a distinctive aroma and taste typical in many Indian recipes. Once the oil is hot, add the ajwain seeds and allow them to crackle, releasing their aromatic essence.
Step 3: Sautéing Spices and Onions
With the ajwain seeds crackling, introduce the broken cinnamon stick and bay leaf into the pan. Sauté these spices for a few seconds until they become fragrant, which will enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Next, add the thinly sliced onions to the pan, reducing the heat to low. Sauté the onions gently, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. This step not only adds sweetness but also forms the base of the dish.
Step 4: Adding the Okra and Spices
Once the onions have softened, it’s time to add the prepared okra to the pan. Sprinkle in salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and amchur powder. Stir everything together, ensuring the spices coat the okra and onions evenly. The combination of spices will not only flavor the okra but also complement the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
Step 5: Cooking the Bhindi
Cover the pan with a lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Keep the heat on low and let the bhindi cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gentle cooking process will allow the okra to become tender while avoiding overcooking, which can lead to mushiness. As the bhindi cooks, you will notice the onions caramelizing beautifully, imparting a rich color and depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 6: Final Adjustments
After about 15 minutes, check the tenderness of the bhindi. Once they are cooked through but still hold their shape, turn off the heat. Taste the dish and adjust the salt and spices as needed, ensuring it meets your personal flavor preference.
Step 7: Serving Suggestions
Transfer the Pyaz Wali Bhindi/Bhindi Do Pyaza to a serving bowl and serve hot. This dish pairs exceptionally well with warm parathas and a side of Kadhi Pakora, making for a fulfilling meal. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that this delightful stir-fry offers, transporting you to the heart of Indian cuisine with each bite.
Conclusion
The beauty of Pyaz Wali Bhindi lies in its simplicity, showcasing how a few basic ingredients can come together to create a dish that is not only nourishing but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe invites you to explore the wonderful world of Indian cooking, where love and tradition are infused into every meal.
