Kadai Bhindi (Spicy Okra Masala)

- Submitted by Dahlia

(Kadhai Bhendi, Karahi Bhendi, Spicy Okra Masala, Vendakkai Masala)

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Kadai Bhindi (also known as Kadhai Bhendi, Karahi Bhendi or Spicy Okra Masala) is a vibrant and flavour packed North Indian side dish that brings together crispy fried okra, colorful bell peppers, and a rich tomato and onion masala, all tossed together in a traditional kadai. The okra is first fried to remove its stickiness and lock in its beautiful green color, then coated in a fragrant blend of cumin, coriander, garam masala and chili powder for a bold, restaurant style finish. Quick to prepare and deeply satisfying, this dish pairs perfectly with roti, naan or plain rice, making it an everyday favorite as well as a showstopper at the dinner table. Whether you call it Vendakkai Masala or Kadai Bhindi, this simple yet irresistible recipe is a must try for every okra lover!

Recipe For Kadai Bhindi

Ingredients

• Ladies Finger (Okra, Bhindi) - 1 lb
• Onion - 1 (chopped)
• Tomato - 2 (pureed)
• Ginger Garlic Paste - 1 tsp
• Capsicum - I used 1/4 of each green and yellow bell pepper 
• Red Chilly Powder - 1 tsp
• Coriander Powder - 2 tsp
• Turmeric Powder - 1/4 tsp
• Garam Masala Powder - 1/2 tsp
• Cumin seeds - 1 tsp
• Salt - as needed
• Oil - as needed
• Cilantro - 2-3 springs

Method

1. Wash the okra, dry it and trim the edges. You can leave the okra whole or cut it into 1" pieces.
2. Deep fry the okra till all the stickiness is gone. The okras should retain its nice green color so do not over fry.
3. Heat oil in a different pan/Kadhai and add some cumin seeds.
4. Add the onions and saute till it is golden brown.
5. Fry the ginger garlic paste and then add the tomato puree.
6. Cook for about 5 minutes and then add the dry spice powders (coriander, turmeric, chilly and garam masala powders).
7. Add salt and cook till the oil oozes out of the masala.
8. Add the capsicum pieces, fried okra pieces and cilantro.
9. Gently toss it, cover and let it cook for 2 minutes.
10. Switch off. Kadai bhindi is ready fro serving.

Serving Suggestion

• Serve the kadai bhindi with any roti or rice.
• In restaurants, this dish is served in a cute looking kadai.

Tips

• Substitute paneer for okra and you have Kadhai Paneer.

More Ladies Finger (Okra) Recipes

Bhendi Bhaja	Bhindi Raita	Bhindi Fry	Vendakkai Pulikulambu
See more okra dishes ⟩⟩