Bhindi Raita: A Flavorful Indian Side Dish
Introduction
Bhindi Raita is a unique and flavorful side dish that combines the crispness of okra (bhindi) with the creamy richness of yogurt. Infused with a variety of spices, this raita adds a delightful contrast to any Indian meal. Whether served with roti, rice, or as an accompaniment to a curry, Bhindi Raita is a versatile and refreshing option for vegetarians. In this recipe, okra is cooked to perfection and combined with yogurt, roasted peanuts, and an aromatic tempering, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal.
Ingredients
Below is the list of ingredients required to prepare Bhindi Raita:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Okra (bhindi), cleaned and chopped | 250 grams |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Hung curd (strained yogurt) | 3/4 cup |
| Mustard seeds (rai) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Roasted peanut powder (moongfali) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Chaat masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Preparing the Okra:
Start by washing and cleaning the okra thoroughly. Once cleaned, cut the okra into small pieces. In a bowl, add the chopped okra along with some oil, salt, and red chili powder. Mix everything well to ensure the spices coat the okra evenly. -
Cooking the Okra:
Now, microwave the okra mixture for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes to prevent burning. The okra should become crisp and cooked through. If you prefer, you can also sauté the okra in a pan with a little oil until it is fully cooked. Once done, set the cooked okra aside to cool down. -
Making the Yogurt Mixture:
In a separate bowl, add the hung curd (strained yogurt), salt, roasted peanut powder, cumin, red chili powder, and asafoetida. Mix everything thoroughly to create a smooth and flavorful yogurt mixture. -
Tempering the Spices:
In a small pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, red chili powder, and asafoetida. Let the spices sizzle and release their aroma. After about 10 seconds, add the cooked okra to this tempering. Mix well for another few seconds to allow the flavors to blend. -
Combining the Yogurt and Okra:
Now, pour the tempered okra into the prepared yogurt mixture and stir everything together. Taste and adjust salt or spice if necessary. -
Serving:
Bhindi Raita is ready to be served! This dish is best enjoyed with garlic dal, sew tomato vegetable, and phulka (Indian flatbread). The combination of tangy yogurt, crunchy okra, and aromatic spices will elevate any meal.
Nutritional Information
Here is a general estimate of the nutritional content per serving of Bhindi Raita (approximate values, based on typical ingredient quantities):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Fat | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 8 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Sugar | 3 grams |
Why You’ll Love Bhindi Raita
- Delicious and Nutritious: Okra is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great addition to your diet. Paired with yogurt, it becomes a creamy and satisfying dish.
- Perfect Side Dish: Bhindi Raita complements a variety of Indian main courses, adding a cool and flavorful contrast to spicy dishes.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of preparation, this raita is an easy side dish to prepare for lunch or dinner.
Try this delightful Bhindi Raita recipe at your next meal, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures!
