🍲 Bhindi Masala Recipe | Restaurant-Style Dry Okra Curry

Looking for a healthy, flavorful, and simple Indian vegetarian recipe for lunch or dinner? This Bhindi Masala Recipe (Dry Okra Curry) is one of the most loved Indian dishes, cooked with fresh okra (bhindi), onions, tomatoes, and aromatic Indian spices.

Bhindi Masala is a dry sabzi, often served with roti, paratha, or dal-rice. It’s gluten-free, vegan, and loaded with fiber and essential nutrients—making it a healthy Indian lunch box recipe.

Whether you’re making it for a weekday meal or a special family lunch, this easy bhindi masala recipe is guaranteed to impress!

🛒 Ingredients for Bhindi Masala (Serves 4)

• Fresh bhindi (okra/lady finger) – 400 grams

• Onions – 2 medium, thinly sliced

• Tomatoes – 2 medium, finely chopped

• Green chili – 1, slit

• Ginger – 1 inch, grated

• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced

• Oil – 3 tablespoons

• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

• Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

• Red chili powder – 1 tsp

• Coriander powder – 1½ tsp

• Garam masala – ½ tsp

• Amchur (dry mango powder) – ½ tsp (optional for tanginess)

• Salt – to taste

• Fresh coriander – for garnish

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Bhindi Masala

✅ Step 1: Wash and Prep the Bhindi

1. Rinse bhindi under running water.

2. Pat dry completely using a clean kitchen towel.

3. Chop off the head and tip, then slice bhindi into 1-inch pieces.

💡 Tip: Moisture makes bhindi slimy while cooking. Ensure bhindi is fully dry for a non-sticky bhindi masala.

✅ Step 2: Shallow Fry Bhindi

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick or heavy pan.

2. Add the chopped bhindi and sauté on medium heat for 8–10 minutes until slightly crisp and tender.

3. Remove and set aside.

📝 This pre-cooking reduces slime and improves texture.

✅ Step 3: Cook the Masala

1. In the same pan, add 2 tbsp oil.

2. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.

3. Add sliced onions, sauté until golden brown.

4. Add grated ginger, garlic, and green chili. Cook for 1–2 minutes.

5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and oil separates.

6. Mix in turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook the spices for 1–2 minutes.

✅ Step 4: Combine Bhindi and Masala

1. Add the sautéed bhindi back into the pan.

2. Mix gently to coat with masala without breaking the bhindi.

3. Cover and cook for 5–6 minutes on low flame.

4. Add garam masala and amchur powder. Stir gently.

5. Garnish with fresh coriander.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Bhindi Masala is a versatile dry curry that goes well with:

• Phulka (roti) or paratha

• Plain steamed rice with dal

• Jeera rice or lemon rice

• Tiffin box for kids or adults

Pair with boondi raita, papad, or pickle for a complete North Indian thali experience.

🎉 When to Make Bhindi Masala?

🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

✅ Gluten-free, vegan, diabetic-friendly and high in dietary fiber — a perfect weight loss Indian dinner recipe.

🧠 Tips to Make Perfect Bhindi Masala

• Always dry bhindi before chopping to avoid sliminess.

• Avoid adding water during cooking.

• Use a wide pan so bhindi cooks evenly and doesn’t clump.

• Add amchur or lemon juice for extra tang.

• You can skip garlic/onion for Jain or no onion garlic recipe.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How to keep bhindi from becoming sticky?

• Use dry bhindi.

• Sauté separately before adding to masala.

• Avoid covering pan when cooking bhindi initially.

Q. Can I use frozen bhindi?

Yes. Thaw completely, pat dry, and then sauté as usual.

Q. Is bhindi good for health?

Yes! Bhindi is rich in fiber, vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants. It supports digestion and regulates blood sugar.

Q. Can I make bhindi masala without onion and garlic?

Absolutely. Just use tomatoes and basic spices for a sattvic bhindi sabzi version.

🔚 Interesting Facts

This homestyle yet restaurant-style Bhindi Masala Recipe is a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. It’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor — a true winner for both busy weeknights and wholesome family lunches.

Make it once and you’ll never look at bhindi the same way again! ✨