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Indian Okra Stir Fry


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  • Author: Chef Shiva Natarajan of Chola Coastal Indian Cuisine
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Fresh okra that is stir-fried with onions and spices resulting in a flavorful side dish that is easy to make and perfect for vegetarians.


Ingredients

  • Cooking oil: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
  • Red onion: 1/2, sliced
  • Garlic: 1 clove, chopped
  • Okra: 1 pound (450 g), chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • Red chili powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Turmeric: 1/2 tsp
  • Coriander: 1/2 tsp
  • Cumin: 1 tsp
  • Ghee (or butter): 1 tsp
  • Water: 1 tsp
  • Amchoor powder (dried mango powder): 1 pinch
  • Chickpea flour: 1 pinch
  • Fresh lemon juice: 1 tsp
  • Salt (Himalayan rock or regular): to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Okra:

Wash and thoroughly dry the okra to prevent it from becoming slimy.

Chop into ½-inch pieces and set aside.

Heat the Oil:

In a sauté pan over medium heat, add the cooking oil.

Sauté Onion and Garlic:

Add the sliced red onion to the hot oil and sauté until soft and translucent, about 2 minutes.

Stir in the chopped garlic and cook until fragrant.

Cook the Okra:

Add the chopped okra to the pan, stirring frequently to ensure it cooks evenly and does not stick. Cook for about 8 minutes.

Add Spices:

Sprinkle the chili powder, turmeric, coriander, and cumin over the okra.

Stir well to coat the okra evenly with the spices.

Add Ghee and Water:

Introduce ghee (or butter) to the pan, followed by a teaspoon of water to help distribute the spices and prevent burning.

Finish with Flavors:

Sprinkle amchoor and chickpea flour over the okra, mixing well to incorporate.

Season with salt and finish with a splash of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

Serving:

Garnish and Serve:

Remove from heat, transfer the okra to a serving bowl, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Ensure the okra is completely dry before chopping to minimize sliminess.
  • Keep stirring prevent the spices from burning and to ensure even cooking of the okra.
  • Chickpea flour adds a subtle nuttiness and helps to thicken any moisture released by the okra, but if you don’t have access to it, you can use all-purpose flour or rice flour.
  • Amchoor, or dried mango powder, adds a tangy, sour element to dishes. A good substitute is lemon juice or tamarind paste.
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: Indian