Bhindi Veg Recipe: Easy and Delicious Indian Stir Fry

Bhindi, also known as okra or lady’s finger, is a beloved vegetable in many Indian households. Its unique texture and ability to absorb flavors make it a perfect ingredient for a delicious and healthy vegetable dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this bhindi veg recipe will guide you through making a flavorful, aromatic, and easy-to-prepare dish that pairs well with roti, naan, or steamed rice.

This recipe celebrates the natural taste of bhindi while enhancing it with vibrant Indian spices and a touch of tanginess.

Cooking bhindi can be tricky since it tends to get slimy, but with the right technique and ingredients, you can create a dry, crispy, and tasty vegetable side that everyone will love. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.

Ready to discover the secrets to perfect bhindi? Let’s dive into this tasty and nutritious recipe that will soon become a staple in your vegetable rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bhindi veg recipe stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and texture. The okra is cooked just right to avoid the slimy texture that many people dislike, resulting in a crisp yet tender vegetable dish.

The spices used are classic Indian pantry staples — cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala — which create a warm and aromatic profile without overpowering the natural taste of the bhindi. The addition of tomatoes adds a subtle tang and moisture, while a pinch of amchur (dry mango powder) enhances the tanginess, making the dish bright and appetizing.

It’s also incredibly versatile and quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or as a flavorful side to your weekend feast. Whether you’re serving it with simple dal and rice or pairing it with a rich curry, this recipe will bring a burst of color and taste to your plate.

Ingredients

• 500 grams bhindi (okra), washed and dried
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil preferred)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan or kadhai
• Sharp knife for chopping
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spatula or spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Serving dish

Instructions

1. Prepare the bhindi: Wash the bhindi under running water and pat them completely dry using a clean kitchen towel. It’s crucial they are dry to prevent sliminess during cooking. Trim the heads and tails, then slice the bhindi lengthwise into halves or thirds depending on size.
2. Heat the oil: In a non-stick pan or kadhai, heat the 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds to release their aroma.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the ginger-garlic paste and sliced green chilies. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil starts to separate from the masala, about 5 minutes. Now add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Cook the bhindi: Add the sliced bhindi to the pan and mix gently so it’s coated evenly with the spices. Spread the bhindi out in the pan, and cook uncovered on medium heat. Stir occasionally but not too often as bhindi cooks best when left undisturbed for some minutes to get a slightly crisp texture.
6. Cook until tender: Continue cooking for 12-15 minutes until the bhindi is cooked through but not mushy. If the mixture looks dry, sprinkle a tablespoon of water, cover, and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent sliminess.
7. Finish with amchur and garam masala: Once cooked, sprinkle the dry mango powder (amchur) and garam masala. Stir gently to combine and cook for an additional minute.
8. Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

“For the crispiest bhindi, ensure the okra is completely dry before cooking and avoid overcrowding the pan.”

• Prevent sliminess: Always dry bhindi well after washing. Cooking on medium heat and stirring occasionally helps reduce the slimy texture.
• Variation with spices: For a North Indian twist, add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) while tempering the cumin seeds.
• Tomato-free version: If you prefer a dry bhindi without tomatoes, skip them and enhance flavor with a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.
• Adding peanuts or sesame seeds: Roast some peanuts or sesame seeds and sprinkle over the bhindi for added crunch and nutrition.
• Try bhindi masala: For a richer version, add a splash of yogurt or cream towards the end of cooking.

Nutrition Facts

*RDI: Recommended Daily Intake

Serving Suggestions

This bhindi vegetable dish is a fantastic side for a variety of meals. Serve it alongside steamed basmati rice and dal for a comforting and balanced meal.

It also pairs wonderfully with Indian breads such as chapati, roti, or paratha.

For a more elaborate meal, complement bhindi with a creamy dal makhani or a rich paneer butter masala. If you enjoy mixing and matching, try it with some Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet finish, or explore other vegetable delights like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals for more inspiration.

Conclusion

This bhindi veg recipe is a delightful way to enjoy okra, showcasing its unique texture and flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients. Its ease of preparation and balanced spices make it a perfect dish for everyday meals or special occasions.

The key to success lies in drying the bhindi well and cooking it patiently to avoid sliminess while achieving that lovely crispness.

With its nutritional benefits and vibrant taste, this dish can easily become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices or pair it with your preferred Indian breads and lentils.

For more delicious and easy vegetable recipes, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas to expand your culinary repertoire.

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