Ingredients and Weight:
- Okra (Fresh): 500 grams (1 pound)
- Red Onion: 1 large (about 200 grams)
- Tomatoes: 3 medium (about 250 grams)
- Indian Cooking Oil or Ghee: 2 tablespoons
- Indian Masala Paste (such as tomato, onion, ginger, and garlic): 2 tablespoons
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (or more for a spicier dish)
- Salt: To taste
- Fresh Cilantro or Basil leaves: For garnishing
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 30-40 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Clean and trim the okra by removing the tops and tails. Slice the onion into thin rings.
- Heat the cooking oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven.
- Add the okra and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to turn bright green and slightly tender. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the masala paste and chili powder, and stir-fry for a minute or two until the aroma is released.
- Add the sliced onions and continue to cook until they become soft.
- Add the tomatoes, season with salt, and let it cook until the tomatoes are soft and pulpy.
- Add the cooked okra back into the pot and mix well. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Cover and let it cook for another 15-20 minutes on low heat until the okra is fully cooked and the curry reaches the desired thickness.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil leaves.
- Serve hot with rice or Indian flatbreads like Naan.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 4 people)
Calories: 200-250 kcal (depending on the amount of oil used)
Carbohydrates: 25g Protein: 8g Fat: 10g (including saturated fat) Fiber: 6g
Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, iron, etc.
Dish Characteristics:
- Spicy and flavorful curry with a rich, tomato-based sauce.
- Okra provides a unique, slightly sticky texture that pairs well with the spicy masala flavors.
- Can be paired with various Indian dishes or enjoyed as a standalone curry.
User Comments:
- "The flavor was spot on! The chili powder gave it a nice kick."
- "I loved the texture of okra in this dish, it added a unique element."
- "This is a great dish for people who enjoy spicy curries."
- "The masala paste really gave this dish a rich flavor."
- "I served it with Naan bread, it was an excellent combination."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use fresh okra for best results. If not available, frozen okra can be used as a substitute but may affect texture and cooking time.
- Adjust the chili powder according to your preference for spiciness. Start with less and add more if desired.
- Use a good quality masala paste to ensure rich flavor. You can find these at Indian grocery stores or online.
