Okra, also known as "lady's finger" or "bhindi" in Hindi, is a popular vegetable in Indian cuisine. It has a unique texture and flavor that adds depth to many dishes. Okra is a flowering plant that belongs to the mallow family, and it is believed to have originated in West Africa. Okra was later introduced to other parts of the world, such as the Americas and Asia, through the transatlantic slave trade and other forms of migration.
Okra is also known for its health benefits, as it is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamin C, and folate. It has a unique texture that can be described as slimy, which can be off-putting to some people. However, this texture can be reduced by cooking okra in certain ways. For example, frying, grilling, or roasting okra can help to reduce its sliminess.
Here are some common ways okra is used in the Indian kitchen:
Bhindi Masala: Bhindi Masala is a popular dish in North India. In this dish, okra is sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It can be served as a main dish with rice or as a side dish with roti.
Sambar: Sambar is a lentil-based vegetable stew that is popular in South India. Okra is often added to the sambar along with other vegetables such as pumpkin, carrots, and eggplant. The addition of okra adds a nice texture to the dish.
Pickles: Okra pickles are a popular condiment in many Indian households. The pickling process involves soaking the okra in vinegar or lemon juice with spices such as mustard seeds, fenugreek, and cumin.
Bhindi Fry: Bhindi Fry is a simple dish in which okra is pan-fried with onions and spices until it is tender and slightly crispy. It is typically served as a side dish with roti or rice.
Bhindi Do Pyaza: Bhindi Do Pyaza is a North Indian dish in which okra is cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices. The name "Do Pyaza" refers to the fact that the dish contains twice as many onions as other ingredients. The addition of the extra onions gives the dish a nice sweetness.
Our favorite from the above is Bhindi fry, as it is quick and easy to prepare, and very flavorful at the same time. We enjoy Bhindi fry mostly with chapati/roti and a choice of dal.
In conclusion, Okra is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is used in many different ways in the Indian kitchen. Whether you're looking for a main dish, a side dish, or a snack, okra is sure to add flavor and nutrition to your meal. We hope that now you know what Okra is, and how it’s used in the Indian kitchen. You can find Okra at an Asian/African supermarket/toko, or a nearby Indian shop.
Do let us know which of the above is your favorite Okra recipe. You can find a tasty, creamy Okra recipe in our cookbook as well.
Enjoy the deliciousness of Okra!