How to Make Bhindi Masala: A Flavourful Indian Okra Recipe

Bhindi Masala, also known as okra masala, is a popular vegetarian Indian dish made with fresh bhindi (okra), onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavour, making it a favourite in Indian households. This dish pairs beautifully with roti, chapati, naan, or even steamed rice.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to make bhindi masala at home using British English, with clear instructions, expert tips, and all the Google SEO keywords you need for top rankings.

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🇮🇳 What is Bhindi Masala?

Bhindi Masala is a dry Indian curry made from chopped okra (also known as ladyfinger), sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and spices such as cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. The result is a semi-dry, slightly tangy, and spicy dish that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for something light and wholesome, bhindi masala is a must-try recipe from Indian cuisine.

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✅ Ingredients for Bhindi Masala

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious bhindi masala at home:

🥬 Main Ingredients:

300–400g fresh bhindi (okra/ladyfinger)

2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or sunflower oil)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 medium onion (finely sliced)

2 medium tomatoes (chopped)

1 green chilli (optional, finely chopped)

1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

🧂 Spices:

½ teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

½ teaspoon cumin powder

½ teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon garam masala

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander (for garnish)

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🧼 Preparation Tips Before Cooking

Wash and dry bhindi completely. Any moisture can make the dish slimy.

Use a clean, dry chopping board and knife to cut the okra into 1-inch pieces.

Cook uncovered initially to reduce moisture and prevent stickiness.

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👨‍🍳 How to Make Bhindi Masala – Step-by-Step

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🥘 Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Bhindi

1. Wash the bhindi and pat dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.

2. Trim the ends and slice into 1–1.5 inch pieces.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan.

4. Add the chopped bhindi and sauté on medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly crispy.

5. Remove and set aside.

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🍅 Step 2: Make the Onion-Tomato Masala

1. In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon oil.

2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

3. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

4. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilli. Cook for 1 minute.

5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.

6. Add turmeric, coriander, cumin, red chilli powder, and salt.

7. Mix well and cook the masala until the oil separates from the sides.

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🔄 Step 3: Combine and Finish

1. Add the sautéed bhindi to the masala mixture.

2. Toss gently to coat the bhindi with the masala.

3. Cover and cook on low heat for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Sprinkle garam masala and mix gently.

5. Garnish with fresh coriander.

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🍛 Serving Suggestions

Bhindi masala is best enjoyed with:

Hot chapati or roti

Plain basmati rice or jeera rice

Paratha or naan bread

A side of raita or pickle

It also makes an excellent part of a vegetarian thali or Indian lunchbox.

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🌟 Tips for Perfect Bhindi Masala

Dry bhindi thoroughly to prevent sliminess.

Fry bhindi separately before mixing with masala – this helps retain texture.

Avoid covering the pan early in the cooking process – steam increases stickiness.

Adjust spice levels to taste.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for tanginess.

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🥄 Bhindi Masala Variations

Stuffed Bhindi Masala: Slit the bhindi and fill with a dry spice mix.

Achari Bhindi: Add pickle masala (achar) to give it a tangy twist.

Onion Bhindi: Use extra onions for a semi-dry version.

Creamy Bhindi Masala: Add a touch of cream or yoghurt for richness.

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🧊 Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently on the hob or microwave until hot.

Avoid freezing bhindi as it can turn mushy upon thawing.

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📝 Final Thoughts

Bhindi masala is an easy, delicious, and healthy Indian vegetable dish that you can prepare in under 30 minutes. With the right tips and techniques, you can enjoy perfectly cooked bhindi that’s flavourful and never slimy.

Whether served with flatbreads or rice, this classic dish will become a regular on your menu – especially when you'r

e looking for something quick, satisfying, and vegetarian.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.