Are you looking for something unique to add to your meal plan? Bhendi or Okra, as it's known in many parts of the world, is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile in the kitchen. If you've been buying this vegetable out of habit or perhaps because you're not sure how to jazz it up, you're in for a treat. Here are five delicious bhendi recipes you must try to bring out the best in this often underestimated vegetable.
Bhendi Raita
Start your journey with something cool and creamy. Bhendi Raita is a simple yet delightful way to incorporate bhendi into your diet. Here’s how to make it:
- Prepare the bhendi: Slice the okra into small pieces and let them dry completely. This step is crucial to avoid a slimy texture.
- Roast: Heat some ghee or oil in a pan, add the bhendi slices, and roast until they turn crispy.
- Mix: Cool the roasted bhendi and mix with whisked yogurt. Add spices like cumin powder, salt, and chopped green chilies.
- Serve: Let it chill for a bit in the refrigerator before serving.
💡 Note: Ensure the bhendi is completely dry before roasting to get the right texture.
Bhendi Fry
This classic dish is an Indian staple, offering a crispy and mildly spicy twist to bhendi.
- Prepare: Slice bhendi lengthwise or into rings.
- Season: Toss with turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and a bit of gram flour for extra crispiness.
- Fry: Heat oil and fry the bhendi until it’s golden brown.
- Serve: Serve hot with rice or rotis.
Bhendi Curry
Bhendi curry can be a highlight of your meal with its rich, tangy flavors. Here’s a simplified version:
- Prep: Cut the bhendi into slices or chunks.
- Cook: Heat oil, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves. Once they splutter, add the bhendi.
- Add Spices: Include turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.
- Simmer: Add some water and let it cook until the bhendi is tender.
- Finish: Stir in some coconut milk or yogurt for creaminess.
Bhendi Sabzi
A sabzi is straightforward to make and pairs well with almost any Indian bread. Here’s how you can do it:
- Cut: Slice the bhendi into rounds or slit them lengthwise.
- Cook: In a pan, heat oil, add cumin seeds, then add the bhendi.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt, turmeric, and a dash of lemon juice for tanginess.
- Garnish: Add some fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Stuffed Bhendi
For a more sophisticated dish, try stuffing bhendi. This recipe adds a burst of flavor inside each okra:
- Slit: Make a slit in each okra without cutting through.
- Stuff: Prepare a mixture of chickpea flour, red chili powder, mango powder, and salt. Stuff this mix inside the slit bhendi.
- Cook: Fry in oil until the stuffing is cooked through and the okra is tender.
- Serve: Serve as an appetizer or a side dish.
⚠️ Note: Be gentle while stuffing to avoid tearing the bhendi.
In summary, bhendi can be transformed into a variety of dishes, each highlighting its unique texture and flavor. Whether you prefer it crispy, tangy, or creamy, these five recipes offer something for every palate. With a little bit of preparation and creativity, you can turn this often overlooked vegetable into the star of your meal.
Can I use frozen bhendi for these recipes?
+
Yes, but the texture might be slightly different. Ensure it’s completely thawed and dried before using.
How do you keep bhendi from becoming slimy?
+
Ensure the bhendi is dry before cooking, avoid overcrowding the pan, and don’t cover it while frying or roasting.
What are some substitutes for bhendi in these recipes?
+
If you need substitutes, try green beans or small eggplants for similar texture dishes.
