Bhindi Masala, a popular Indian dish made with okra (bhindi) cooked in a flavorful spiced tomato-based gravy. This recipe serves around 4 people.
Ingredients:
For the bhindi (okra) preparation:
- 500g fresh bhindi (okra), washed, dried, and cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
For the masala gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Chopped coriander leaves for garnishing
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bhindi (Okra):
- Wash the bhindi and let them dry completely. This helps in reducing the sliminess while cooking.
- Cut off the ends of each bhindi and then cut them into pieces of about 1 inch in length.
- Cook the Bhindi:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the cut bhindi to the pan. Sprinkle salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder.
- Cook the bhindi on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are cooked and slightly crispy. This might take about 10-15 minutes. Set aside.
- Prepare the Masala Gravy:
- In another pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes:
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well.
- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala. This might take around 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Bhindi and Gravy:
- Add the cooked bhindi to the masala gravy. Mix well so that the bhindi pieces are coated with the spices and gravy.
- Simmer and Garnish:
- Let the bhindi masala simmer for a few minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Your Bhindi Masala is ready to be served! It goes well with roti (Indian flatbread) or rice. Enjoy this flavorful and delicious dish.