Kurkuri Bhindi – Fried Okra

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Kurkuri bhindi, also known as fried okra, is a popular Indian side dish or snack made from thinly sliced okra (bhindi) coated in a spiced gram flour (besan) batter and deep-fried until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Here’s a description of this delicious dish:

Ingredients:

1. Okra (Bhindi): Fresh okra is the primary ingredient. It’s washed, dried, and sliced into thin strips or rounds, lengthwise.
2. Gram Flour Batter: The okra is coated in a seasoned batter made from gram flour (besan). The batter is flavored with various spices and seasonings, including red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, amchur (dried mango powder) or chaat masala, and salt. Some variations may also include ajwain (carom seeds) for added flavor.
3. Oil for Frying: Vegetable oil, such as canola or sunflower oil, is used for deep-frying.

Cooking Process:

1. Preparation: The okra is first washed and patted dry thoroughly to remove any moisture. Excess moisture can make the batter less crisp.
2. Slicing: The okra is sliced into thin strips or rounds, lengthwise. Slicing the okra thinly ensures that it becomes crispy when fried.
3. Batter Coating: The sliced okra is then coated in the gram flour batter. The batter is made by mixing the gram flour with the spices and seasonings, and then adding water to form a thick, smooth paste. The okra slices are dipped into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Frying: The batter-coated okra slices are deep-fried in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy. It’s important to fry them in batches, not overcrowding the oil, to ensure even frying.
5. Draining: After frying, the kurkuri bhindi is removed from the oil and placed on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Serving: Kurkuri bhindi is typically served hot and can be enjoyed as a side dish with Indian meals or as a crunchy snack on its own. It is often garnished with additional spices like chaat masala or amchur powder for extra flavor and a hint of tanginess. Some people also serve it with a side of yogurt-based dip or chutney to balance the heat and enhance the taste.

Kurkuri bhindi is loved for its crispiness, spiciness, and unique flavor, making it a popular vegetarian dish in Indian cuisine. It’s a delightful way to enjoy okra and is commonly prepared during festivals, celebrations, or as an appetizer for gatherings.