Aloo Bhindi Masala
Ingredients
- 1½ cup chopped okra
- 1½ cup cubed boiled potatoes same size as okra
- 3 tbsp oil divided
- ¼ tsp mustard seed
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- ⅛ tsp asafetida
- 2 tbsp tbsp
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp ginger thinly sliced
- 2 tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp red chili powder adjusts to taste
- 2 tbsp Besan
- ½ cup cubed tomatoes
Instructions
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Wash the okra thoroughly and ensure it is completely dry. Cut the okra into ½ inch rounds.
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Boil the potatoes, ensuring they are not overcooked. Peel them and cut them into pieces about twice the size of the okra.
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Chop the tomatoes into pieces about the same size as the potatoes.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a saucepan over low heat. Add the okra and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until tender but still green. Remove the okra from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Heat the oil until moderately hot and test the heat by adding a single cumin seed. If the seed cracks right away, the oil is ready. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafetida. Stir, then add the potatoes and ginger, stirring for 2-3 minutes.
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Stir in the spices: coriander powder, turmeric, and chili powder. Add the okra back into the pan, sprinkle with besan (gram flour) and salt. The besan helps the spices coat the okra and potatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes over low heat.
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Once the okra and potatoes are cooked through, add the chopped tomatoes and stir for a few more minutes until combined. Adding tomatoes at the end not only enhances the taste but also makes the dish vibrant and visually appealing. The Potato Okra Masala is ready and looks vibrant and colorful.
Notes
Aloo Bhindi Masala (Potato Okra): A Flavorful North Indian Stir-Fry | Manjula’s Kitchen
Introduction to Aloo Bhindi Masala
Aloo Bhindi, a delicious combination of potatoes (aloo) and okra (bhindi), is a beloved North Indian stir-fry that’s both vegan and gluten-free. This dish is spiced to perfection, with everyday ingredients that enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables. It’s a simple, quick, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With tender okra, perfectly boiled potatoes, and a blend of spices, Aloo Bhindi makes a great accompaniment to dal, rice, or roti.
Cultural and Traditional Importance
Aloo Bhindi is a common dish in many North Indian households. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a staple for busy weeknights, while its flavorful spices and colorful presentation make it special enough for family gatherings. In India, meals often feature a variety of dishes to balance textures and flavors, and Aloo Bhindi is frequently paired with lentils like Dal Tadka and breads like Roti for a wholesome and complete meal.
Cooking Aloo Bhindi at home not only allows for fresher ingredients but also ensures that the dish is prepared exactly to your taste. With the addition of besan (gram flour) and tomatoes, this dish becomes both hearty and vibrant, appealing to everyone at the table.
Recipe Variations from Manjula’s Kitchen While Aloo Bhindi Masala is a popular dish on its own, you can explore other similar stir-fry recipes or variations with different vegetables from Manjula’s Kitchen:
- Aloo Gobi: A stir-fry made with potatoes and cauliflower, flavored with similar spices, making it a close cousin to Aloo Bhindi.
- Bhindi Masala: A more saucy version of okra, cooked in a spiced tomato gravy, offering a different take on okra dishes.
- Aloo Baingan: A tasty variation that combines potatoes with eggplant, cooked in a similar blend of spices.
- Baingan Bharta: A roasted eggplant dish that pairs well with Aloo Bhindi as part of a larger spread.
Health Benefits and Dietary Considerations
Aloo Bhindi is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Okra is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, while potatoes provide potassium and carbohydrates, making this dish a great source of energy. The use of minimal oil and the addition of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric add both flavor and health benefits, with turmeric known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. For a lower-carb option, you can reduce the amount of potatoes or substitute them with sweet potatoes or other root vegetables. Besan (gram flour) adds a touch of protein and helps the spices adhere to the vegetables, making the dish even more satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Masala Aloo Bhindi can be enjoyed as a side dish or as the main course. It pairs perfectly with Indian breads like roti, paratha, or even naan. For a more complete meal, serve it alongside Jeera Rice and a cooling yogurt dish like Raita.
If you’re hosting a meal, Aloo Bhindi Masala makes a colorful addition to the table when paired with other Indian classics like Chole or Dal Fry. The vibrant colors and bold flavors of these dishes create a well-balanced and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Conclusion
Aloo Bhindi Masala is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious dish that can be prepared quickly with everyday ingredients. Its combination of tender potatoes, crisp okra, and aromatic spices makes it a versatile meal option that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as part of a traditional Indian meal or enjoying it as a standalone dish, Aloo Bhindi is sure to become a favorite in your home. Try this recipe today and bring the taste of North Indian home cooking to your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How can I prevent okra from becoming slimy?
- To prevent sliminess, make sure the okra is thoroughly dry before cooking. Frying the okra over low heat without covering the pan also helps to keep the texture crisp.
- Can I substitute potatoes with another vegetable in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes, carrots, or even eggplant for a different take on the dish.
- What are some variations of Aloo Bhindi I can try?
- You can try Aloo Gobi or Bhindi Masala for similar stir-fried dishes that use different vegetables or a saucy variation.
- How should I serve Aloo Bhindi?
- Masala Aloo Bhindi pairs wonderfully with roti, paratha, or naan. It can also be served with rice and a cooling raita for a complete meal.
- Is this dish suitable for vegans and those on a gluten-free diet?
- Yes, Aloo Bhindi is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
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