India | Vegetables | Okra

Bhindi Bhaji

(Indian fried okra)

Yield: 4-6 servings


INGREDIENTS PREP AMOUNT
Oil 1/4 cup
Mustard seeds 1 Tbsp
Cumin seed 2 tsp
Chile peppers minced or sliced in rounds 1-3 each
Turmeric 1/2 tsp
Asafoetida powder (opt.) big pinch
Okra stems removed, slice in 1/2" rounds 1 1/2 lbs
Salt & pepper   to taste

METHOD

Basic Steps:  Toast → Sauté
  1. Heat the oil over medium-high flame in a large pot. Add the mustard seeds and cumin and stir just till the mustard seeds start popping.
  2. Add the chile peppers, turmeric and asafetida powder and sauté briefly. Add the okra, salt and pepper and fry, stirring often till okra is cooked through but still firm. Adjust seasoning and serve.

VARIATIONS

  • Add 1/2 each minced onion with the chile peppers and proceed with the recipe. After 2-3 minutes of frying the okra, add 2 cups of chopped tomatoes and simmer till cooked through.

NOTES

  • Bhaji is the Hindi word for vegetable side dishes that are usually served without a sauce.