Bhindi Fry, also known as Okra Fry, is a popular Indian side dish made from crispy, spiced okra. This dish is loved for its unique texture and flavorful seasoning. The okra is sliced thinly and stir-fried until it becomes crispy, with spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander enhancing its natural taste. Bhindi Fry is typically served with roti or rice, and it’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of okra, which is rich in fiber and low in calories.

Ingredients:

• 500g okra (bhindi), washed, dried, and sliced thinly
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon amchur (dried mango powder) or lemon juice (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Okra:

   • Wash the okra thoroughly and dry it completely using a kitchen towel. Slice the okra thinly, discarding the tops and tails.

2. Heat the Oil:

   • In a large pan or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds, and let them sizzle and pop for a few seconds.

3. Add Spices:

   • Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder to the pan. Stir the spices quickly to release their aroma.

4. Cook the Okra:

   • Add the sliced okra to the pan. Stir well to coat the okra with the spices. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The okra should cook until it becomes crispy and golden brown, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Avoid covering the pan, as this can make the okra slimy.

5. Add Amchur (Optional):

   • If using, sprinkle amchur powder or squeeze lemon juice over the cooked okra for a tangy flavor. Stir well to combine.

6. Season and Garnish:

   • Add salt to taste and mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

7. Serve:

   • Serve Bhindi Fry hot as a side dish with roti, paratha, or rice.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 150g):

• Calories: ~120 kcal
• Proteins: ~2g
• Carbs: ~8g
• Fiber: ~3g

Nutritional Summary: Bhindi Fry is a low-calorie, fiber-rich side dish that’s light yet satisfying. The dish offers a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion. It’s also low in protein and fat, making it a healthy choice for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. The crispy texture and flavorful spices make this a delightful accompaniment to any Indian meal.