Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful vegetarian dish? Look no further than Bhindi Do Pyaza! This simple yet delicious Indian recipe features tender okra (bhindi) sautéed with aromatic onions (pyaaz), creating a symphony of textures and tastes. It's a perfect weeknight dinner, ready in under 30 minutes, and a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both easy and satisfying. This recipe is ideal for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh okra (bhindi), trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, for garnish
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Okra
The key to perfectly cooked bhindi is to prevent it from becoming slimy. Pat the okra pieces dry with a paper towel before cooking. This simple step makes a huge difference in the final texture.
Step 2: Sautéing the Onions
Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and caramelized. This takes about 8-10 minutes and adds incredible depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Adding Spices and Okra
Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala to the onions. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. Now, add the okra pieces to the skillet and stir well to coat them with the spice mixture.
Step 4: Cooking the Okra
Add salt and the chopped green chilies (if using). Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender-crisp. Don't overcook the okra, as it will become mushy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with roti, naan, rice, or your favorite Indian bread. This simple dish is a delicious example of the best recipes that require minimal effort.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste along with the spices.
- If you prefer a less spicy dish, reduce or omit the red chili powder.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, or potatoes for a more substantial meal.
- To enhance the aroma, you can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) along with the spices.
- Lemon juice squeezed at the end adds a lovely tang.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 4-6 grams
Bhindi Do Pyaza is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual get-together. It’s a wonderful representation of simple, healthy, and flavorful food recipes, easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your everyday cooking!