Bhindi Masala Curry Recipe – A Delicious Okra Delight for Your Dinner Table
Introduction
Bhindi Masala Curry is a quintessential Indian dish, beloved for its delightful blend of spices and tender okra. This vegetarian recipe pairs perfectly with dal tadka, spinach raita, and warm, soft phulkas. Whether you’re planning a comforting weekday meal or an impressive vegetarian spread for your guests, this curry never fails to impress.
With its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and simple cooking technique, Bhindi Masala Curry is a treat for both the eyes and the palate. Below, we provide a step-by-step guide, including preparation tips and nutritional benefits, to help you create this delicious dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Okra (Bhindi), washed and dried | 250 grams |
| Sambar powder | 4 tablespoons |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Kashmiri red chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mustard seeds (Rai) | ½ teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion, thinly sliced | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomato, diced | 1 large |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
| Sesame seeds (white), for garnish | Optional |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Vitamin C | 35% of RDA |
| Iron | 8% of RDA |
Preparation Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 55 minutes |
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Okra
- Wash the okra thoroughly under running water and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Trim the tips and the tail ends of the okra.
- Using a knife, carefully make a small slit along the length of each okra without cutting it into halves.
Step 2: Spice Mix Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine sambar powder, red chili powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, and turmeric powder.
- Add a splash of oil to the spice mix and stir to form a thick paste.
Step 3: Stuff the Okra
- Fill each slit okra with the prepared spice paste using a small spoon or your fingers.
- Ensure the okra is evenly coated with the spice mix for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Steam the Okra
- Arrange the stuffed okra in a steamer basket.
- Steam for about 10-12 minutes or until the okra becomes tender but still retains its shape.
Step 5: Tempering and Cooking
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a deep skillet or kadai over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and let them pop, then add cumin seeds.
- After 10 seconds, add the chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Step 6: Add Onions and Seasonings
- Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the skillet.
- Cook the onions until they turn soft and translucent.
Step 7: Combine Okra and Tomatoes
- Gently add the steamed okra to the skillet and stir carefully to avoid breaking the pieces.
- Cook for 5 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add the diced tomatoes, mix well, and cook until the tomatoes become soft and blend into the curry.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Garnish
- Adjust the salt according to taste.
- Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
- If desired, sprinkle white sesame seeds over the curry for a nutty garnish.
Step 9: Serve
Serve hot Bhindi Masala Curry with a side of dal tadka, spinach raita, and soft phulkas. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and brings the authentic taste of Indian cuisine to your dining table.
Tips for the Best Bhindi Masala Curry
- Dry the Okra Properly: Any moisture on the okra can make the curry slimy. Ensure it’s completely dry before cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and tender okra enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Avoid Overcooking: Okra should remain slightly firm to retain its natural texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference.
Pairing Suggestions
Bhindi Masala Curry pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed Rice: For a simple and hearty meal.
- Phulkas or Chapatis: To mop up the delicious curry.
- Dal Tadka: For a comforting and nutritious combination.
- Spinach Raita: To balance the heat with a cooling element.
Enjoy the rich, authentic flavors of this delightful Bhindi Masala Curry recipe! Let us know how it turned out for you in the comments below. Share your twists or serving ideas to inspire fellow food enthusiasts. 🌟
