Dahi Ma Bheeda Recipe (Dahi Bhindi – Parsi Style Okras Cooked in Yogurt)
Dahi Ma Bheeda, or Dahi Bhindi, is a classic Parsi dish that brings together the earthy flavor of okra with the tangy richness of yogurt. This dish, perfect for lunch or dinner, is packed with bold spices and cooked to a delightful creamy consistency, making it a staple in Parsi kitchens. The crispy okra is cooked in a flavorful yogurt-based gravy, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Serve it with steamed rice or traditional khichdi for a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and light.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra) | 500 grams, sliced into ½ inch pieces |
| Ginger | 2 inches, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 3 teaspoons |
| Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) | ¾ cup, beaten until smooth |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | For shallow frying and cooking |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Parsi
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Okra:
- Begin by washing the okra thoroughly. Dry them well with a kitchen towel to remove any moisture, as this helps prevent the okra from becoming slimy during cooking.
- Cut each okra into half-inch slices. Sprinkle a little salt over the cut pieces and set them aside. This step allows the okra to release some of its moisture, which is essential for achieving the perfect texture when frying.
-
-
Fry the Okra:
- Heat a generous amount of sunflower oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced okra and shallow fry them until they turn crispy and golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure the pieces fry evenly.
- Once the okra is cooked to a crisp, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
-
Prepare the Spice Base:
- In the same pan, with a little oil left, add the finely chopped ginger and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until they soften and release their fragrance.
- Next, add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and cumin powder. Stir the spices well and fry them for a couple of minutes until the raw smell of the spices dissipates.
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Cook the Yogurt Sauce:
- Lower the heat and gradually add the beaten curd (yogurt) to the pan. Mix well to incorporate the yogurt with the spices, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Be cautious with the heat, as yogurt can curdle if cooked on high heat.
- Stir the yogurt and spice mixture continuously to avoid any lumps from forming, ensuring a silky texture.
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Combine the Okra and Yogurt:
- Once the yogurt mixture is well incorporated, add the crispy fried okra to the pan. Gently mix to coat the okra in the creamy yogurt sauce.
- Let the dish simmer for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The okra should remain crisp on the outside but absorb some of the yogurt sauce, creating a perfect balance.
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Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Dahi Ma Bheeda hot, paired with steamed rice or khichdi (a traditional comfort food made with rice and lentils). You can also serve it alongside Batata Nu Shaak (a Parsi-style potato curry) for a complete, comforting meal.
Tips for the Perfect Dahi Ma Bheeda:
- Frying Okra: Ensure the okra is completely dry before frying. This will help in getting them crispy and prevent them from becoming slimy.
- Yogurt: Always use fresh, smooth yogurt to achieve the best texture in the gravy. Beating the yogurt until smooth before adding it to the pan helps avoid any curdling.
- Spices: Adjust the level of red chili powder based on your spice preference. The dish traditionally has a mild heat, but you can add more chili powder for a spicier version.
- Serving Variations: While rice is the most common accompaniment, this dish pairs wonderfully with flatbreads like chapati or paratha as well.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
This simple, yet flavorful dish is an excellent option for those looking to enjoy a vegetarian, gluten-free meal that is both healthy and satisfying. The tanginess from the yogurt combined with the aromatic spices makes it a standout choice for any meal.
Enjoy Dahi Ma Bheeda as a side dish or make it the centerpiece of your next lunch or dinner gathering—either way, it’s bound to delight your taste buds.
