Ajwaini Tamatar Bhindi (Ajwaini Tomato Okra)
Introduction:
Ajwaini Tamatar Bhindi, a delicious Indian dish, is a perfect combination of tangy tomatoes, flavorful carom seeds (ajwain), and tender okra (bhindi). This dish is cooked in a rich, smooth tomato gravy with a hint of sweetness from sugar and a creamy touch from cashew paste, making it a delightful addition to any meal. It’s an ideal choice for a sattvic (no onion, no garlic) lunch that is both wholesome and delicious.
Ingredients
The following ingredients are required to prepare this tasty dish. The combination of these ingredients creates a well-balanced flavor profile that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra) | 500 grams |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 2 teaspoons |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Cashew nuts (soaked and ground) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: No Onion No Garlic (Sattvic)
Instructions:
Ajwaini Tamatar Bhindi is a simple yet flavorful dish that requires just a few steps to prepare. Here is a detailed guide on how to make this dish.
-
Prepare the Bhindi (Okra):
Start by washing the bhindi (okra) thoroughly. Once washed, pat them dry with a kitchen towel. It is important that the bhindi is completely dry to avoid it becoming slimy while cooking. Cut each bhindi into half, set aside. -
Cook the Bhindi:
Heat some oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the prepared bhindi to the pan and stir fry them for a couple of minutes. This will help reduce the stickiness. After stirring, cover the pan and cook the bhindi on medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Let the bhindi cook for about 10-12 minutes until it softens and becomes tender. Once done, remove the bhindi from the pan and set it aside. -
Prepare the Gravy:
In the same pan, heat a little more oil for the gravy. Once the oil is hot, add ajwain (carom) seeds and asafoetida (hing). Let the seeds sizzle for a minute to release their aroma. -
Cook the Tomato Puree:
Now, add the homemade tomato puree along with red chili powder to the pan. Cook this mixture on medium flame for about 5-7 minutes. The tomato puree should thicken slightly and the oil should start to separate from the masala. Stir occasionally. -
Flavor the Gravy:
Once the tomato mixture is cooked, add sugar and salt to taste. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve and the gravy to blend together. -
Add Cashew Paste:
To make the gravy creamy and rich, add the soaked and ground cashew paste. Stir well to combine. Let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes. This will thicken the gravy and infuse the dish with a rich texture. -
Combine Bhindi and Gravy:
Finally, add the pre-cooked bhindi back into the pan. Mix everything together gently to ensure the bhindi is well coated with the tomato gravy. Let the dish cook for an additional 5 minutes on low heat, allowing all the flavors to come together. -
Serve:
Your Ajwaini Tamatar Bhindi is now ready! Serve it hot with freshly made Butter Garlic Naan and Boondi Raita for a perfect Indian meal. You can also enjoy it with steamed rice or chapati for a complete lunch.
Serving Suggestions:
Ajwaini Tamatar Bhindi is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various Indian breads like naan, roti, or paratha. To complement the tangy flavors, you can serve it alongside a refreshing Boondi Raita or Cucumber Salad. This dish is not only satisfying but also a great addition to any vegetarian meal plan, providing both taste and nutrition.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Fats | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
Tips for Perfect Ajwaini Tamatar Bhindi:
- Ensure the bhindi is completely dry before cooking to avoid it becoming slimy.
- If you prefer a spicier version, increase the quantity of red chili powder or add chopped green chilies to the gravy.
- To make the dish richer, you can add a little cream at the end, though this will modify the flavor slightly.
- For an authentic touch, try using ghee (clarified butter) instead of oil.
Ajwaini Tamatar Bhindi offers a flavorful combination of spices and textures. The ajwain (carom seeds) lend a unique aromatic touch, while the creamy tomato gravy with cashew paste makes it utterly irresistible. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner, this dish will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the taste of India with every bite!
