Bhindi Masala is a simple, dry-style Indian curry made with fresh okra (ladyfinger), onions, tomatoes, and a mix of everyday spices. It’s a homestyle dish that’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and goes well with chapati or rice. The key to a good Bhindi Masala is cooking the okra properly so it stays tender without turning slimy. This recipe serves 4.
Ingredients
-
500g fresh okra (bhindi), washed, dried completely, and sliced into ½-inch rounds
-
2 tablespoons oil
-
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
-
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
-
1 medium tomato, finely chopped
-
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
-
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
-
1 teaspoon coriander powder
-
½ teaspoon cumin powder
-
½ teaspoon garam masala
-
½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
-
Salt to taste
-
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Prep the Okra
Wash the okra and dry it thoroughly with a kitchen towel. Make sure there is no moisture before slicing, as water can make it slimy. Cut off the tops and tails and slice the rest into rounds.
2. Cook the Okra
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan. Add the okra and sauté on medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it looks slightly crisp and cooked. This step helps reduce stickiness. Remove the okra and set aside.
3. Make the Masala Base
In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of oil. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and golden. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and the oil begins to separate.
4. Add the Spices
Stir in turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2–3 minutes until the masala is well blended.
5. Combine with Okra
Add the cooked okra to the masala and mix gently so the pieces don’t break. Cook for another 5–6 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to come together. Sprinkle garam masala at the end and stir once more.
6. Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh coriander. Serve hot with roti, paratha, or dal and rice.
Bhindi Masala is the kind of dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with just a few ingredients. It’s light, full of texture, and perfect for a simple weekday lunch or dinner.
