Delicious and Healthy Vegan Bhindi Masala Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams Bhindi (Ladies Finger/Okra)
  • 2 large Onions, finely chopped
  • 2 large Tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 Green Chili, chopped
  • 1 inch piece of Ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves of Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons Coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon Red Chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Coriander Leaves, finely chopped for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the bhindi (ladies finger/okra) and pat dry them completely. Remove the ends and cut them into one inch pieces.
  2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them crackle.
  3. Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and saute until they turn golden brown.
  4. Add the chopped green chili, grated ginger, and minced garlic to the pan and saute for a few more minutes.
  5. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft and mushy.
  6. Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt to the pan and mix well.
  7. Add the cut bhindi to the pan and mix until they are well coated with the spices. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the bhindi is cooked.
  8. Uncover the pan and increase the heat to medium. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bhindi is slightly crispy.
  9. Add the garam masala and mix well. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  10. Remove the pan from heat. Garnish the bhindi masala with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting Board - To chop the onions, tomatoes, and bhindi.
  • Knife - For cutting and chopping the vegetables.
  • Pan - To cook the bhindi masala.
  • Spatula - For stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Grater - To grate the ginger.
  • Measuring Spoons - To measure the required spices.
  • Plate - To serve the bhindi masala.
  • Cooking Spoon - For sautéing and stirring the ingredients.

Recipe variations

  • Add diced potatoes along with bhindi for a Bhindi Aloo Masala.
  • Include other vegetables such as capsicum (bell pepper) or carrots to make it more colorful and nutritious.
  • Add a teaspoon of dry mango powder (amchur) for a tangy flavor.
  • For a spicier version, increase the quantity of red chili powder or add finely chopped green chilies.
  • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch.
  • Include a teaspoon of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for a unique flavor profile.
  • Add a tablespoon of roasted peanut powder to enhance the nutty taste.
  • To make it more creamy, add a tablespoon of cashew paste or coconut milk.
  • Experiment with different spices like cumin powder, fennel seeds, or black pepper to bring out different flavors.
  • For a smoky twist, roast the bhindi on a barbecue grill before adding it to the masala.

Recipe overview

This Vegan Bhindi Masala recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that's both nutritious and packed with flavors. Made with fresh okra, also known as bhindi, and a blend of aromatic spices, it's a popular Indian dish that's loved by everyone. This recipe involves sautéing okra with a mix of spice-laden tomato and onion gravy that not only enhances the taste but also gets rid of the typical sliminess of okra. The garam masala added at the end gives it an extra punch of flavor. Expect a mildly spicy and tangy taste with a hint of sweetness from the onions. It's perfect to serve with rotis or rice. With our step-by-step guide, you'll find it easy to prepare this exotic dish right in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of cooking this healthy and delicious vegan meal!

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?
    Yes, you can use frozen okra for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using.
  2. Can I reduce the amount of oil used?
    Yes, you can reduce the amount of oil used if you prefer. However, it may affect the texture and taste of the dish.
  3. Is this recipe spicy?
    The spice level can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit the green chili altogether.
  4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
    Certainly! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, potatoes, or carrots to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the bhindi masala ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
  6. What can I serve with this dish?
    Vegan bhindi masala pairs well with roti, naan, or steamed rice. You can also serve it as a side dish with any Indian meal.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting Board - A sturdy cutting surface for chopping vegetables.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the bhindi and other ingredients.
  • Large Pan - A wide and deep pan for cooking the bhindi masala.
  • Spatula - A utensil for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
  • Measuring Spoons - Utensils for accurately measuring the spices.
  • Grater - A tool for grating the ginger.
  • Mincing Tool - A tool for mincing the garlic cloves.
  • Serving Bowl - A bowl for serving the bhindi masala.
  • Garnish - Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing the dish.

Origin stories

Bhindi Masala traces its roots to the Indian subcontinent, particularly to Punjab, a region known for its rich and spicy cuisine. The star ingredient, Bhindi, or Okra as it's known in many parts of the world, was brought to India by the Moors from Africa, and since then, it has become a staple in Indian cuisine. The unique blend of spices, known as 'masala', was a clever invention by Indian home cooks who found that these combinations not only enhanced the taste but also had various health benefits. The real charm of this dish lies in the delicate balance of flavours and textures - the slight crispiness of the bhindi contrasting beautifully with the tangy and spicy masala. This dish is a testament to the beauty of Indian cuisine, and how it can transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.