Bhindi Masala Curry Recipe
Description:
Bhindi Masala Curry is a vibrant and aromatic Indian dish, perfect for a fulfilling lunch. Made with tender bhindi (ladyfinger or okra), this curry combines the flavors of sautéed onions, tomatoes, and a variety of warming spices. The key to this dish is the roasting of bhindi, which eliminates any stickiness and enhances its natural flavor. The bhindi is then cooked with a blend of spices like red chilli powder, turmeric, and sambar powder, creating a richly spiced curry that pairs perfectly with paratha, rice, or a cooling side like raita.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra) | 250 grams |
| Sambar Powder | 4 tablespoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garlic (Chopped) | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion (Thinly sliced) | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomato (Cut into big cubes) | 1 medium-sized |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | As required |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | For garnishing |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra):
Begin by washing the bhindi thoroughly and ensuring it is completely dry to avoid any stickiness. Cut off the ends of the bhindi and chop them into halves. This will help in even cooking and better absorption of spices. -
Roast the Bhindi:
Heat a non-stick pan and add a small drizzle of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped bhindi to the pan. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the bhindi and sauté them on medium flame for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and slightly golden. Once done, remove the bhindi from the pan and set it aside. -
Prepare the Spice Base:
In the same pan, add a tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium flame. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the hot oil. When they begin to splutter, add the chopped garlic and sauté for a minute until aromatic. -
Caramelize the Onions:
Next, add the thinly sliced onions to the pan. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of sugar and a pinch of salt. This will help in caramelizing the onions, giving them a rich golden color and deeper flavor. Cook the onions for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and caramelized. -
Add Tomatoes and Cook:
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and sauté for another minute until the tomatoes soften. Stir the mixture occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. -
Combine Bhindi and Spice Powders:
Once the tomatoes have softened, lower the heat and return the roasted bhindi to the pan. Mix well with the onion-tomato base. Add the red chilli powder, turmeric powder, sambar powder, and salt. Stir everything together until the spices are well-coated over the bhindi and the mixture is aromatic. -
Simmer and Adjust Seasoning:
Let the bhindi simmer on low heat for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed to suit your preference. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the bhindi masala curry is ready, turn off the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly toasted sesame seeds for a subtle crunch and nutty flavor. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes such as Tawa Paratha, Methi Kadhi, or Palak Raita for a complete and balanced meal. -
Lunch Box Friendly:
This dish is perfect for packing in your lunch box! It stays fresh and flavorful even when reheated, making it a great option for a wholesome office or school lunch.
Tips for Perfect Bhindi Masala:
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Avoid Stickiness: Ensure the bhindi is completely dry before cooking. You can also sauté the bhindi in batches if you find it overcrowding the pan.
-
Spices: If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the amount of red chilli powder and Kashmiri red chilli powder. Sambar powder adds a unique flavor, so try to use authentic sambar powder for the best taste.
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Serving Ideas: Bhindi Masala Curry pairs beautifully with Chapati, Jeera Rice, or Plain Basmati Rice for a hearty meal.
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful Bhindi Masala Curry, which brings the essence of Indian home-cooked meals to your table!
