Bhindi Bhaji

"Bhindi Bhaji" is a simple and delicious Indian stir-fry made with okra (bhindi) and basic spices. Ingredients:

  • 500 grams okra (bhindi), washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable oil or mustard oil)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Okra:

    • Trim the ends of the okra and cut them into 1-inch pieces. You can also slice them lengthwise if preferred.
  2. Heat Oil:

    • Heat oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add Cumin Seeds:

    • Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds to the pan. Let them splutter.
  4. Saute Onions and Green Chilies:

    • Add thinly sliced onions and slit green chilies to the pan. Saute until the onions turn translucent.
  5. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste:

    • Add ginger-garlic paste to the pan. Saute for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
  6. Add Spices:

    • Lower the heat and add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt to the pan. Mix well to combine the spices with the onion mixture.
  7. Cook Okra:

    • Add the prepared okra pieces to the pan. Stir well to coat the okra pieces with the spice mixture.
    • Cover the pan and let the okra cook over medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and cooked through. Be gentle while stirring to avoid breaking the okra pieces.
  8. Garnish and Serve:

    • Once the okra is cooked to your desired consistency, remove the pan from heat.
    • Garnish Bhindi Bhaji with freshly chopped coriander leaves, if desired.
    • Serve hot with roti or paratha as a delicious and flavorful side dish.
    • Optionally, serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the Bhindi Bhaji before eating.

Enjoy the simple and delicious Bhindi Bhaji as a comforting and flavorful side dish with your Indian meal! Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference.