Yield: 4 Servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Okra (Bhindi), cleaned and trimmed – about 8-10 medium okra pods
- 2 tbsp Ghee or Oil
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 1 inch Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 1 Green Chili, slit lengthwise (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 ½ tsp Coriander Powder
- ½ tsp Red Chili Powder (optional – for extra heat)
- 1/4 tsp Garam Masala
- 1 cup Tomato Puree (or 3-4 chopped tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup Water (adjust as needed)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh Coriander Leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare Okra: Wash the okra thoroughly and trim off the ends. Cut them into 1-inch pieces – this helps them cook evenly. A trick to reduce sliminess: briefly blanch the okra in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately plunge it into cold water. Drain well. (This step is optional but recommended).
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown – about 8-10 minutes. This builds a fantastic base flavor!
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Add Ginger, Garlic & Chili: Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili to the pot. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom Spices: Add turmeric powder, coriander powder and red chili powder. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly – this “blooms” the spices.
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Add Tomato Puree & Okra: Add the tomato puree and stir well to combine with the spice mixture. Then add the prepared okra pieces. Stir to coat them evenly.
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Simmer in Gravy: Pour in ½ cup of water (adjust as needed). Bring to a simmer, cover the pot tightly, and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and the gravy has thickened slightly.
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Finish & Garnish: Add garam masala and stir well. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Tips & Variations:
- Blanching Okra: Blanching helps reduce sliminess, but don’t over-blanch or the okra will become mushy.
- Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves): Adding a pinch of kasuri methi towards the end adds a wonderful earthy aroma and flavor.
- Cashew Paste: For an extra creamy texture, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of cashew paste at the end.