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Bhindi Masala Recipe

Bhindi Masala

A dry Indian stir-fry of tender okra cooked with onions, tomatoes, and everyday ground spices.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 500 g okra Washed, dried thoroughly, and sliced into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil Divided use
  • 1 medium onion Finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes Finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste Freshly prepared or store-bought
Spices and Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder Standard ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder Ground coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala Standard Indian spice blend
  • 1/2 teaspoon amchur powder Dried mango powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt Or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Skillet or kadai A wide, heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute heat evenly and prevents sticking.
  • 1 Chef's knife and cutting board For trimming and slicing the okra.

Method
 

  1. Ensure the washed okra pods are completely dry. Trim off the stem ends and tips, then slice the pods into 1-inch rounds.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced okra and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until the pods turn slightly tender and the sticky sap reduces. Transfer the okra to a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent and light golden at the edges.
  4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 30 seconds until the raw aroma fades. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, pressing the tomatoes gently until they break down into a thick paste and oil begins to glisten at the edges.
  5. Add the seared okra back into the pan along with the garam masala and amchur powder. Toss gently to coat the okra evenly with the masala. Cook uncovered for another 3 to 4 minutes until the okra is fully tender and heated through. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

Do not cover the pan with a lid during cooking, as trapped moisture increases sliminess.
Adjust red chili powder according to preferred spice levels.