Bhindi, also known as okra, is a beloved vegetable across India, cherished for its unique texture and flavor. Indian cuisine offers a variety of bhindi recipes that bring out the best in this humble vegetable, blending it with aromatic spices, tangy tamarind, and rich masalas.
Whether you like your bhindi dry and crispy or cooked in a luscious gravy, there’s a recipe to suit every palate and occasion.
In this post, we’ll explore multiple delicious bhindi okra veg recipes of India, from simple stir-fries to more elaborate dishes that highlight the versatility of okra. Each recipe includes easy-to-follow steps, tips for perfecting your dish, and variations to customize flavors.
If you’re looking to add a nutritious, flavorful vegetable to your repertoire, these bhindi recipes will surely become staples in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bhindi recipes from India are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with the right spices and techniques. Okra is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
These recipes emphasize quick cooking methods to avoid the slimy texture that okra sometimes develops, ensuring a crisp and delightful bite every time. Plus, the robust flavors from cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala make these dishes vibrant and exciting.
Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes are easy to master and adaptable to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- Bhindi (Okra): 500 grams, washed and chopped
- Onion: 1 medium, finely sliced
- Tomato: 1 medium, chopped (optional for some recipes)
- Green chilies: 2, slit
- Ginger-garlic paste: 1 teaspoon
- Mustard seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
- Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala: ½ teaspoon
- Amchur (dry mango powder): ½ teaspoon (for tanginess)
- Tamarind paste: 1 teaspoon (optional for some recipes)
- Salt: to taste
- Oil: 3 tablespoons (mustard oil preferred for authenticity)
- Fresh coriander leaves: for garnish
Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spatula or spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Serving plate or bowl
Instructions
Recipe 1: Bhindi Masala (Dry Okra Stir Fry)
- Prepare the okra: Wash the bhindi thoroughly and dry them completely using a kitchen towel. Cut off the tops and slice into 1-inch pieces to avoid sliminess.
- Heat oil: In a non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil on medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Sauté onions and spices: Add sliced onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and powders: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes soften and oil starts to separate.
- Cook okra: Add the chopped bhindi to the pan. Stir well to mix with the masala. Cook on medium flame, stirring occasionally, until the bhindi is tender and slightly crispy (about 15-20 minutes). Avoid over-stirring to reduce slime.
- Finish: Sprinkle garam masala and amchur powder. Mix gently and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Recipe 2: Bhindi Do Pyaza (Okra with Double Onions)
- Slice onions: Thinly slice 2 medium onions. Separate half for frying and half for cooking.
- Fry onions: Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a pan. Fry half the onions until golden brown and set aside for garnishing.
- Tempering: In the same pan, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they crackle, add green chilies and ginger-garlic paste.
- Add onions and spices: Add the remaining onions, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Sauté until soft.
- Add okra: Add chopped bhindi and mix well. Cook covered on low flame, stirring occasionally until tender and dry.
- Combine and finish: Add the fried onions back, sprinkle garam masala, and mix gently.
- Serve hot: Garnish with fresh coriander and serve.
Recipe 3: Bhindi Do Pyaza with Tamarind (Tangy Okra)
- Follow the steps of the Bhindi Do Pyaza recipe above.
- When the okra is almost cooked, add 1 teaspoon tamarind paste dissolved in 2 tablespoons water.
- Mix well and cook uncovered for 5 more minutes until the tangy gravy thickens.
- Garnish and serve with steamed rice or roti.
Tips & Variations
“The key to perfect bhindi is to ensure it is completely dry before cutting and cooking to avoid the slimy texture. Also, cooking on medium to high heat helps keep the pieces crisp.”
- To reduce slime: Sprinkle a little salt on the sliced okra and leave it for 15 minutes. Rinse and dry completely before cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) in the tempering for an authentic flavor and better digestion.
- For a richer dish: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk towards the end for a creamy bhindi curry.
- Variations: Try adding potatoes or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor. You can also try the crispy fried bhindi recipe for a snack or side.
- Serving alternative: Bhindi can be used as a filling for stuffed parathas or combined with other vegetables like eggplant for a mixed vegetable curry.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Vitamin C | 25% of RDA |
Vitamin A | 10% of RDA |
Iron | 8% of RDA |
Serving Suggestions
Bhindi dishes pair wonderfully with Indian breads like roti, chapati, or paratha. For a complete meal, serve bhindi masala alongside dal (lentils) and steamed basmati rice.
For a lighter option, try serving bhindi stir fry with a side of yogurt or raita to balance the spices. These okra recipes also complement other Indian dishes such as Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or Chicken Bruschetta Recipe Stove Top Stuffing for a fusion twist.
Conclusion
Bhindi or okra is a versatile vegetable that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures when prepared with the right technique. Indian bhindi recipes are a testament to how simple ingredients can be elevated with aromatic spices and thoughtful cooking methods.
Whether you prefer a dry stir fry, a tangy tamarind-infused curry, or a luscious onion-rich bhindi do pyaza, these recipes are sure to bring vibrant taste and nutrition to your dining table. Don’t forget to experiment with spices and accompaniments to create your own signature bhindi dish.
For more inspiration on cooking delicious meals, check out our Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe or the comforting Chicken Shawarma Trader Joe’S Recipe.
Happy cooking and enjoy the wonderful flavors of Indian bhindi recipes!
📖 Recipe Card: Bhindi Okra Veg Recipe of India
Description: A flavorful and simple Indian dish featuring tender okra sautéed with aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g fresh bhindi (okra), washed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add green chilies, turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt; cook for 1 minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and oil separates.
- Add chopped bhindi and mix well with the spices.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until bhindi is tender.
- Sprinkle garam masala and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 18 g
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