Bhendi Bhaji / Stir fry Okra

Some might dislike Okra/Lady's Finger/Bhindi for its sliminess.  But in my family, everyone loves Bhendi. Every time I visit our local Indian store, I definitely pick fresh Okra. We relish Bhindi in a variety of ways - a Konkani style coconut curry Bhenda Ghash, spicy North Indian Masala Bhindi, stuffed Okra Bharwa Bhindi or this quick stir fry. If you are an Okra fan too, you must give this simple recipe a try.

Ingredients:

Okra/Bhindi - 400 gm

Mustard Seeds - 1/2 tsp

Asafetida/Hing - 1/4 tsp

Cayenne Pepper/Red chili powder - 1/2 tsp
Chat Masala or Aamchur - 1/4 tsp
Oil - 2 tbsp
Salt

How to stir fry Okra:

• Wash the okra well and pat them dry. If time permits, set it aside for 4 - 5 hours, so that all moisture is lost. Slice the okra into round medium slices or cut each one lengthwise into 4 parts.
• Heat 2 - 3 tbsp oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, asafetida. When mustard seeds pop, add sliced okra. 
• After okra gets cooked, add salt, chat masala, cayenne pepper. Sauté until okra darkens and turns crisp.
• Serve Bhendi Bhaaji with chapati or rice. Garnish with shredded coconut if you like.