Bhindi Huli Recipe – South Indian Style Tangy Okra
A Quick and Flavorful Side Dish Perfect for Lunch
Bhindi Huli, a vibrant and tangy South Indian-style okra (lady finger) dish, is a flavorful addition to any meal. With its delicate balance of spices and the tanginess from tamarind, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice or rotis, making it an ideal side dish for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a family or packing a lunchbox, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress with its simple ingredients and bold flavors.
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Nutritional Information
- Instructions
- Serving Suggestions
- Tips & Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
Bhindi Huli, also known as South Indian Style Tangy Okra, is a popular vegetarian side dish found in many South Indian homes. The unique combination of tamarind, sambar powder, and mustard seeds gives the dish its distinct flavor profile. Okra, also known as bhindi or ladyfinger, is a vegetable that is packed with nutrients, making this dish not only delicious but also healthy. The preparation is quick, making it an excellent option for busy weekdays when you’re looking for something both tasty and nutritious to complement your main course.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bhindi (Lady Finger/Okra) | 2 cups, chopped into 1-inch pieces |
| Onion | 1/2 cup, chopped or cubed (preferably red onions) |
| Tamarind Paste | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Sambar Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coconut Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Calcium | 35mg |
| Iron | 1.5mg |
Instructions
- Prepare the Okra: Begin by washing and drying the okra thoroughly. Trim off the ends and slice the okra into 1-inch pieces. Set aside.
- Prepare the Onions: Cube the onions and keep them aside.
- Heat the Oil: In a large deep saucepan, heat the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and let them crackle and pop.
- Sauté the Onions: Stir in the chopped onions and sauté for a few minutes until they soften and slightly change color.
- Add the Spices: Add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and sambar powder to the onions. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas.
- Add the Okra: Add the chopped bhindi/okra to the pan and stir well to coat the okra in the spices and onions.
- Incorporate Tamarind: Stir in the tamarind paste along with salt to taste. Mix again to ensure the tamarind is well incorporated. You can adjust the quantity of tamarind depending on how tangy you want the dish to be.
- Cook the Bhindi: Cover the pan and cook on medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bhindi is tender but still semi-dry. If needed, add a splash of water to prevent burning or sticking.
- Final Taste Check: Taste the dish and adjust salt or tamarind to your preference. Once the bhindi is cooked to your liking, remove the pan from heat.
Serving Suggestions
Bhindi Huli is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of South Indian meals. Here are a few serving ideas:
- With Rice: Serve Bhindi Huli alongside hot steamed rice and a dollop of ghee for a simple and satisfying meal.
- With Sambar: Pair with Mixed Vegetable Sambar for a wholesome South Indian lunch.
- With Chapati or Paratha: This tangy okra also makes a great accompaniment to soft chapatis or flaky parathas.
- In Lunchboxes: This dish is a perfect lunchbox option for both adults and kids. It can be paired with roti or rice, making it a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
- Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the quantity of red chilli powder or substitute it with mild paprika for color.
- Adding Coconut: For extra richness, you can add freshly grated coconut while cooking the okra. This variation is commonly found in many South Indian homes.
- Using Other Vegetables: While okra is the star of this dish, you can add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
- Slightly Crispy Okra: For a crispier texture, shallow fry the okra pieces before adding them to the curry mixture. This adds a delightful crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Bhindi Huli ahead of time?
Yes, Bhindi Huli can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier the next day.
2. What other spices can I use for this recipe?
You can experiment with additional spices like cumin powder, coriander powder, or even a pinch of hing (asafoetida) for added depth of flavor.
3. Can I use frozen okra?
Fresh okra is preferred for this recipe as it retains its texture and flavor better. However, if you only have frozen okra, you can use it, but be mindful of the cooking time as frozen okra tends to release more moisture.
4. Can I make Bhindi Huli spicier?
If you like your food extra spicy, you can increase the amount of red chilli powder or even add fresh green chilies while cooking.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Bhindi Huli is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
Bhindi Huli is a quick, flavorful, and healthy South Indian-style side dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with tangy goodness. Whether you’re new to South Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any meal.
Enjoy this delightful tangy okra dish with your loved ones, and don’t forget to pack it in your lunchbox for a tasty and nutritious option!
