Why Bhindi Masala Deserves a Spot on Your Dinner Table
Sometimes, it’s not the rich gravies or fancy dishes that bring you comfort, it’s the simple homely ones. Bhindi Masala (okra stir-fry) is exactly that. Tender okra sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and Indian spices turns into a dish that reminds every expat of those cozy weekday lunches back home. Served with roti or rice, it’s the kind of meal that makes you pause and smile between bites.
Everything You’ll Need to Make Bhindi Masala
Ingredients
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500g bhindi (okra), washed, dried, and cut into 1-inch pieces
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2 tbsp oil
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1 tsp cumin seeds
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1 medium onion, finely sliced
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2 tomatoes, chopped
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1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
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½ tsp turmeric powder
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1 tsp coriander powder
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½ tsp garam masala
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1 tsp red chili powder
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Salt to taste
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Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Serving Size
Serves 3–4 people
Duration
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Step by Step Instructions
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Prep the Bhindi Right:
 Wash okra and let it dry completely before cutting. Moisture is the enemy of crispy bhindi — so this step matters! -
Sauté the Okra:
 Heat oil in a pan and lightly fry the bhindi on medium heat until slightly crisp. Remove and set aside. -
Build the Masala Base:
 In the same pan, add cumin seeds, followed by onions. Sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. -
Add Tomatoes & Spices:
 Toss in chopped tomatoes, turmeric, coriander powder, chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates. -
Combine & Simmer:
Add the fried bhindi to the masala. Mix gently and cook uncovered for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Finish with garam masala and garnish with coriander leaves.
Little Tips for Perfect Bhindi Every Time
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Dry your bhindi properly — it keeps the dish from turning slimy.
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Use a wide pan so the okra fries evenly instead of steaming.
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Add amchur (dry mango powder) for a tangy twist if you like a North Indian flavor kick.
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Pair it with soft chapatis made from Whole Wheat Flour or steamed Basmati Rice for a wholesome meal.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~180 kcal
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 9g
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Carbs: 20g
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Fiber: 6g
FAQ
Q: Why does my Bhindi Masala turn slimy?
Because of excess moisture — always pat dry the bhindi and avoid covering while cooking.
Q: Can I add other veggies?
Yes, you can add potatoes or bell peppers for a fun twist.
Q: How long can I store it?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat in a pan before serving.
Final Thought
For Indian expats in Europe, Bhindi Masala isn’t just another curry, it’s a bite of nostalgia. It’s that comforting side dish you’d find on every family dining table back home. And now, with Dookan Germany, you can bring that same taste to your kitchen, from okra to Indian spices, everything you need is just a click away.