All About Kurkuri Bhindi Recipe

Kurkuri Bhindi, also known as Crispy Okra, is a popular Indian appetizer or side dish that showcases the delightful flavors of tender okra coated in a spiced gram flour (besan) mixture and deep-fried to a crispy perfection. This dish is a delightful combination of textures, with the slimy nature of okra being transformed into a crunchy delight through the frying process.

To prepare Kurkuri Bhindi, fresh okra is sliced into thin strips or rounds and then marinated with a blend of aromatic spices like red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, and amchur (dried mango powder), along with salt and besan. The marination allows the spices to infuse into the okra, enhancing its taste. After marinating for a while, the okra is deep-fried until golden brown and crispy, resulting in a satisfying and addictive snack.

Kurkuri Bhindi is enjoyed across India as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Its crunchy texture and well-balanced spices make it a favorite at gatherings, parties, and even in everyday meals. Served with a side of tangy chutney or yogurt-based dip, Kurkuri Bhindi offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds.

Ingredients Of Kurkuri Bhindi Recipe:

• 250 grams fresh okra (bhindi)
• 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
• 2 tablespoons rice flour
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnishing

Step By Step Instructions Of Kurkuri Bhindi Recipe:

Step 1: Preparation

1. Wash the okra thoroughly and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel.
2. Trim the ends of the okra and slice them into thin, uniform strips. Ensure the slices are dry to prevent splattering during frying.

Step 2: Making the Spice Mix

1. In a mixing bowl, combine chickpea flour, rice flour, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well to create a homogeneous spice mix.

Step 3: Coating the Okra

1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough for frying, around 350°F (175°C).
2. Take a handful of sliced okra and coat them evenly with the prepared spice mix. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
3. Shake off any excess spice mix and carefully drop the coated okra slices into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven frying.

Step 4: Frying

1. Fry the coated okra slices until they turn golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per batch.
2. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried okra from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Serving

1. Arrange the crispy Kurkuri Bhindi on a serving plate.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve Kurkuri Bhindi hot with lemon wedges on the side for that tangy kick. It’s great as a standalone snack or a side dish for your main course.

Tips Of Making Kurkuri Bhindi Recipe:

• Ensure that the okra slices are completely dry before coating them with the spice mix. Moisture can hinder the crisping process.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. You can make the dish spicier by adding more red chili powder or even a pinch of chaat masala.
• Use a deep-frying thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for achieving crispy and evenly cooked okra.
• To make the dish even healthier, you can consider baking the okra instead of deep frying. Coat the okra with the spice mix, arrange them on a baking sheet, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until crispy.