Okra Fries Recipe | Kurkuri Bhindi
Bhindi fries are a tasty and healthy snack option made by cutting fresh bhindi into thin slices, coating them in a seasoned batter and deep-frying them till they turn crisp and golden brown. Not only are they a delicious alternative to traditional french fries, but okra fries are also packed with health benefits. Okra is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamins and antioxidants, making it a great option for anyone looking to incorporate more nutrient-dense foods into their diet.
Okra fries have gained popularity in recent years as a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional french fries. Okra is a vegetable commonly used in Southern and Indian cuisine, and has been enjoyed for centuries because of its unique flavor and health benefits. While okra is usually prepared in stew or curry, it can also be sliced and fried to make a crispy and delicious snack that is perfect for dipping. Okra fries have become increasingly popular in restaurants and cafes, and they are also a popular homemade snack for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional french fries.
High in Fiber: Okra is a great source of dietary fiber, which may help promote digestive health, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Rich in vitamins: Okra is a good source of vitamins C, K, and A as well as B vitamins such as folate and thiamin. These vitamins are important for maintaining overall health, supporting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin and vision.
Antioxidant properties: Okra is rich in antioxidants, which may help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals. It may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
Low in Calories: Okra is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber, which makes it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight.
Okra fries can be a healthy alternative to traditional french fries for several reasons:
Nutrient-Density: Okra is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. When okra is prepared as fries, this nutrient-density is preserved, making it a healthier option than french fries, which are often high in unhealthy fats and low in nutrients.
Low fat content: Okra fries can be made using a variety of cooking methods, including baking, air frying or shallow frying. These methods can help reduce the fat content of fries, making them a healthier option than deep-fried french fries.
Low calorie content: Okra fries are generally lower in calories than traditional french fries. This may make them a good option for people who want to maintain a healthy weight or reduce their calorie intake.
Gluten-Free Alternatives: Okra fries can be made gluten-free by using alternative flours such as rice flour or cornmeal. This makes them a great option for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Overall, okra fries can be a healthy alternative to traditional french fries, providing a variety of nutrients and health benefits while still satisfying cravings for a crispy and delicious snack.
- 175 gram Okra (bhindi / ladyfinger / bhendi ) Washed, dried with soft cloth
- 6 gram Ginger garlic paste fresh made or ready to use
- 1/4 tbsp Chili powder Mild or hot as per preference
- Table salt as per taste (sea salt makes great taste)
- 15 gram gram flour or half cup
- 10 gram corn flour or quarter of cup
- 2 tbsp water to make batter
- 300 ml cooking oil (approx. amount indicated, please add/ reduce as per frying pan size / portion) to fry
Method
- Slice the Okra in 2 pieces (No Need to remove seed pods) and remove ends
- Add to the Mixing Bowl
- Add Salt as per taste
- Add Chilli Powder and secret masala
- Add Ginger Garlic Paste
- Add some water
- Mix well
- Add Gram flour (besan)
- Add Corn flour
- Mix well so each slice is coated nicely with batter
- Heat the Cooking Oil in a pan for fry
- Check the temperature and add coated Okra when oil is enough hot for frying
- Fry until it get nice golden brown color ; make sure it will not burn/ over fry
- Golden brown
- Take out in a serving plate. Best served hot with tomato ketchup or mint yogurt.
Baked and Airfrier Recipe
Yes, you can both bake and air fry Kurkuri Bhindi (crispy okra) instead of deep-frying it. Here are the steps for each method:
Baking Kurkuri Bhindi:
Ingredients:
- 500g bhindi (okra), sliced
- 2 tbsp gram flour (besan)
- 2 tbsp rice flour
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tbsp oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a mixing bowl, add the sliced bhindi, gram flour, rice flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and oil. Mix well to coat the bhindi evenly.
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread the coated bhindi in a single layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bhindi is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or chutney.
Air-frying Kurkuri Bhindi:
Ingredients:
- 500g bhindi (okra), sliced
- 2 tbsp gram flour (besan)
- 2 tbsp rice flour
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tbsp oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
- In a mixing bowl, add the sliced bhindi, gram flour, rice flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and oil. Mix well to coat the bhindi evenly.
- Spread the coated bhindi in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes or until the bhindi is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or chutney.
Some tips and tricks to make perfect bhindi fries:
Make sure the okra is dry. Pat the okra dry with a paper towel before slicing it. This will help to remove any excess moisture and ensure that the fries turn crispy.
Use fresh bhindi: Fresh bhindi is the key for crispy frying. Avoid using bhindi that is soft or sticky, as it may result in soggy fries.
Cut the bhindi thinly and evenly. Cutting the bhindi into thin and even slices will help ensure that they cook evenly and become crisp.
Preheat the oil. Preheating the oil to the right temperature (375°F) is key to getting crispy ladyfinger fries. Use a candy thermometer or deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the bhindi in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will help ensure that the fries are crisp and cook evenly.
Use a light batter. A light batter made of all-purpose flour, salt and spices will help create a crispy coating for bhindi fries. Avoid using a heavy batter or coating, as this can make the fries soggy.
Drain the fries. After frying the okra, take them out on a paper towel lined plate to drain off excess oil. This will help in keeping the fries crispy.
Serve immediately: Bhindi fries are best served immediately after frying, while they are still hot and crispy.
Here are some dipping sauce suggestions that pair well with okra fries:
Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing is a classic dipping sauce that pairs well with okra fries. Its creamy and tangy flavor complements the crispy texture of the fries.
Spicy Ketchup: Combine ketchup with hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy dipping sauce that pairs well with the mild flavor of okra fries.
Aioli: Aioli is a garlic-flavored mayo that can be used as a dipping sauce for okra fries. Its rich and creamy texture adds flavor and moisture to fries.
Sriracha Mayo: Combine Sriracha sauce with mayo for a spicy and tangy dipping sauce that pairs well with okra fries.
Chipotle Sauce: Chipotle sauce is a smoky and spicy sauce that goes well with the mild flavor of okra fries. Its bold flavor adds depth and complexity to fries.
Honey Mustard: Combine honey and mustard for a sweet and sour sauce that pairs well with the crispy texture of okra fries.
Try experimenting with different dipping sauces to find the one you like best. Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix and match flavors to make your own unique dipping sauce.
Here are some ideas for variations on the recipe for bhindi fry:
Oven Baked Okra Fries: Instead of deep frying the okra, you can bake them in the oven for a healthier version of the recipe. Simply toss chopped okra with a light coating of oil and seasonings, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
Cajun-Spiced Okra Fries: Add Cajun seasoning to the flour coating for a spicy twist on the recipe. You can also serve them with Cajun-style remoulade sauce.
Vegan Okra Fries: To make the recipe vegan, simply use a vegan batter made from chickpea flour, water, and seasonings. You can also use a vegan dipping sauce, such as Vegan Ranch or Garlic Aioli.
Garlic and Herb Okra Fries: Toss cooked okra fries with minced garlic, chopped herbs, and sea salt for a delicious and flavorful version of the recipe.
Gluten-Free Okra Fries: For those with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease, use gluten-free flour or a breadcrumb coating.
Sweet Potato and Okra Fries: Cut sweet potatoes and okra into strips and stir-fry them together for a unique and delicious combination of flavors.
Okra Fry with Lemon and Chili: Squeeze lemon juice over cooked okra and sprinkle with chili powder for a tangy and spicy flavor.
These variations can add zest to the dish and cater to different dietary needs or preferences. Feel free to experiment with different ideas and ingredients to create your own unique ladyfinger fry recipe.
If you are looking for a tasty and healthy breakfast option, then you must try making okra fries at home! They’re easy to prepare, and can be customized to meet your tastes and preferences. Not only are they a great source of fiber, vitamins and minerals, but they can also be a healthy alternative to traditional french fries. In addition, okra fries are versatile and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces.
So, why not try making bhindi fry at home today itself? You’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious they are, and you just might discover a new favorite snack. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, okra fries are a delicious and nutritious option you won’t regret trying.
FAQ
Q: What is okra?
Answer: Okra is a green vegetable with a unique texture and taste. It is commonly used in Southern cuisine and is known for its slimy texture when cooked.
Q: How do you make okra fries?
Answer: To make bhindi fry, you have to first cut the bhindi into thin strips. Then, dip them in a batter made of flour, cornmeal, and seasonings. Finally, fry the bhindi in hot oil till it becomes crispy and golden brown.
Q: Are okra fries healthy?
Answer: Yes, bhindi fry can be a healthy breakfast option if prepared properly. Okra is high in fiber, vitamins and minerals, and can be a healthy alternative to traditional french fries.
Question: Can I make bhindi fries without deep frying?
A: Yes, you can make bhindi fries without deep-frying them or by baking them or air-frying them. It can be a healthier option and still result in crispy and delicious bhindi fries.
Q: What are some seasoning options for okra fries?
A: There are many seasoning options for okra fries, including Cajun seasoning, garlic and herb seasoning, or a simple mixture of salt and pepper.
Q: What are some dipping sauce options for okra fries?
A: Okra fries can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, spicy ketchup, or honey mustard.
Q: Are okra fries suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
A: Okra fries can be made suitable for vegetarians or vegans by using a batter that does not contain eggs or dairy. You can also use a vegetarian dipping sauce to serve with bhindi fries.
Q: Can okra fries be made gluten free?
A: Yes, okra fries can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or a breadcrumb coating instead of regular flour.
