Reader's Recipe: Okra (Bhindi)

This week's Reader's Recipe comes form my dear friend Molly. I've never made Okra before so I'm excited to try this! Thanks Molly :)

Okra -- called "Bhindi" in Hindi 

This recipe can be made with either fresh or frozen okra.  Fresh okra is more flavorful, but both work well.  This is fast, easy and healthy. This is for 2 cups okra.

1. Wash and cut okra lengthwise 

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil on medium/high

3. When the oil is hot (give it at least 5 minutes), add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds

4. If you are using frozen okra, add one small chopped onion and saute for about 5-7 minutes.  If you are using fresh okra, you can skip this step. 

5. Add the sliced okra to the oil and cumin seeds

6. Add half a teaspoon of turmeric powder (called "haldi" in Hindi), one teaspoon of "garam masala," and half a teaspoon of salt.  (Turmeric power and garam masala are easily found in any Indian grocery story, and in some regular grocery stores; they are also available at Williams Sonoma and other kitchen specialty shops).

7. Saute for about 5 minutes on medium/low 

8. Add another half teaspoon of salt (to your liking) and stir for another 1-2 minutes.

Serve with basmati rice or "roti" (flat round Indian bread).  Enjoy!