Bhindi Masala Recipe – A Flavorful North Indian Delight
Bhindi Masala, a traditional North Indian dish, is a perfect blend of tender okra cooked in a medley of spices. This simple yet flavorful vegetarian side dish can elevate your everyday meals and is an excellent pairing with roti or rice. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a rich, aromatic Bhindi Masala that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Okra) | 350 grams |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cooking oil | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 150 kcal |
| Protein | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 grams |
| Fat | 8 grams |
| Sodium | Varies (depends on salt used) |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Okra
- Start by washing the okra (bhindi) thoroughly. Trim off the tips and cut them into 1-inch thin slices. This will ensure that the okra cooks evenly and absorbs the spices well.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions to the pan and sauté them until they become soft and translucent. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the onions from burning.
Step 3: Cook the Okra
- Once the onions are cooked, add the sliced okra to the pan.
- Add salt to taste and stir well to mix.
- Let the okra cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and turns slightly brown. This step should take about 10 minutes. Keep the lid partially covered to help it cook faster without drying out.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
- Once the okra is softened, add the finely chopped tomatoes. Stir the mixture well and cook until the tomatoes break down and become soft.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and additional salt as per your taste. Stir everything together, making sure the spices coat the okra and tomatoes evenly.
- Let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the oil to separate from the masala.
Step 5: Final Touch
- Turn off the heat once the Bhindi Masala is cooked to your desired consistency.
- The okra should be tender, and the spices should have blended into a beautiful, aromatic masala.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious Bhindi Masala hot with Panchmel Dal, Lauki Raita, and Phulka (Indian flatbreads) for a wholesome, satisfying meal. You can also pair it with steamed rice for a comforting dinner experience.
Tips for Perfect Bhindi Masala
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: To ensure that the okra cooks evenly, avoid overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Keep the Heat Low: Cooking the okra on low-medium heat helps to retain its texture and flavor without becoming slimy.
- Customize the Spices: You can adjust the amount of red chili powder and coriander powder based on your spice tolerance.
- Add a Dash of Lemon: For a zesty touch, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the Bhindi Masala just before serving.
Conclusion
Bhindi Masala is an easy, nutritious, and aromatic dish that will be a hit at the dinner table. The combination of okra and spices makes for a flavorful vegetarian side dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive occasions. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite.
Give this Bhindi Masala recipe a try today, and you’ll quickly see why it’s a beloved favorite in North Indian kitchens!
