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Side DishDinner

Bhindi Masala

Bhindi Masala is a flavorful and aromatic Indian and Pakistani dish featuring okra cooked with a blend of spices, onions, and tomatoes. This vegan-friendly recipe is a perfect side dish, offering a delightful texture and rich taste. It's a staple in many South Asian homes.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
45 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Medium
Per serving
170 kcal
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VeganVegetarianGluten-free
Bhindi Masala

Mise en place

Ingredients

Measurements

Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.

Ingredients

  • 500 gokra, washed, dried, trimmed, and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
  • 3 tbspvegetable oil
  • 1 pcsyellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbspginger, grated
  • 2 clovegarlic, minced
  • 1 pcsgreen chili, slit lengthwise
  • 2 pcstomato, medium, finely chopped
  • 1 tspcoriander powder
  • 0.5 tspcumin powder
  • 0.5 tspturmeric powder
  • 0.5 tspred chili powder
  • 0.5 tspgaram masala
  • 1 tspsalt

garnish

  • 2 tbspfresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish(optional)

Equipment

spatula · skillet · cutting board · knife · large non-stick pan

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure the pan is hot before adding okra to prevent it from becoming slimy.

  2. 2

    Add the prepared okra to the hot oil and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is slightly tender and loses its stickiness.

    About 10 min

    Cook’s note: Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to get an even sear.

  3. 3

    Remove the cooked okra from the pan and set it aside.

  4. 4

    In the same pan, add a splash more oil if needed, then add the chopped yellow onion.

  5. 5

    Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and translucent.

    About 7 min

    Cook’s note: Cooking the onions thoroughly adds sweetness and depth of flavor.

  6. 6

    Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and green chili to the pan.

  7. 7

    Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: Be careful not to burn the garlic.

  8. 8

    Stir in the chopped tomato and cook for 3-5 minutes until it softens and releases its juices.

    About 5 min

  9. 9

    Add the coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.

  10. 10

    Mix well and cook the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: If the mixture becomes too dry, add a tablespoon of water to prevent the spices from burning.

  11. 11

    Return the sautéed okra to the pan with the spice mixture.

  12. 12

    Gently toss to coat the okra evenly with the masala.

    About 1 min

  13. 13

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

    About 7 min

    Cook’s note: Avoid overcooking the okra to maintain its texture.

  14. 14

    Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Per serving

Nutrition

Calories
169.5kcal
Protein
3.8g
Carbs
16.3g
Fat
11.2g
Fibre
5.9g
Sugar
5.2g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover Bhindi Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a pan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.

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