Bendekaayi Gojju (Lady Finger in Coconut Curry)
A Delightful South Indian Recipe to Elevate Your Lunch Table
Bendekaayi Gojju, a traditional South Indian dish, combines the vibrant flavors of lady fingers (okra) with a rich coconut-based curry. This vegetarian dish, characterized by its unique blend of spices and the sweetness of jaggery, is perfect for pairing with soft phulka or steaming hot rice. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, this recipe serves four and is ideal for a wholesome weekday meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra) | 1/2 kg, sliced |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 |
| Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coconut | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Green Chillies | 2, chopped |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 3 sprigs, chopped |
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 tablespoon, roasted |
| Tamarind Paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Oil (for cooking) | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | 2 cups (divided) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 6g |
Preparation Instructions
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Prepare the Coconut Paste: Start by grinding the fresh grated coconut, roasted chana dal, green chillies, tamarind paste, and jaggery into a smooth paste using a mixer grinder. This aromatic paste will form the base of your curry.
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Heat the Oil: In a wide pan, heat a sufficient amount of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to crackle, releasing their nutty aroma.
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Add the Spices: To the hot oil, add the dry red chillies and a few curry leaves. Sauté them until they become crisp, infusing the oil with their flavors.
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Cook the Lady Fingers: Add the sliced lady fingers to the pan. Stir-fry them until they lose their sliminess and start to turn golden brown at the edges. This step is crucial as it enhances the texture and flavor of the dish.
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Combine with the Paste: Once the lady fingers are well-cooked, add the prepared coconut paste and pour in 1 cup of water. Stir to combine all the ingredients, and allow the mixture to come to a boil. You’ll notice it thickening quickly due to the coconut content.
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Adjust the Consistency: After the mixture thickens, add salt to taste and another cup of water. Stir well and bring it to a boil once more, allowing it to reach your desired consistency.
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Serve: Once the curry has thickened to your liking, remove it from heat. Serve your Bendekaayi Gojju hot, paired with phulka or steamed rice for a nourishing and satisfying meal.
Bendekaayi Gojju is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures, showcasing the culinary heritage of South India. This dish is sure to delight both family and guests, bringing warmth and comfort to your dining table. Enjoy every bite of this delightful curry that encapsulates the essence of love through food.
