In Nepal, we are extremely lucky that we can find okra round the year. It is rich in many nutrients like vitamin A, K, C, magnesium, folate and also includes protein. Okra is low in calories and high in fiber. I have cooked okra many different ways and finally nailed a recipe that is absolutely mouth watering. Growing up, I noticed that most people do not know the proper way to cook okra. One of the most important rules when cooking okra is to make sure it is completely dry while prepping.
Babita Shrestha is a plant-based chef, graphic designer and photographer. Currently, Babita is based in Pokhara. She has penned her first cookbook, “Beyond Himalayas” which will be available in the market soon.
Ingredients
Okra: 2 handfuls (500g)
Onion: 1 medium (80g)
Potatoes: 2 medium (160g)
Tomato: 4 small (150g)
Cilantro: handful (30g)
Spices
Sunflower oil: 2 tbsp
Cumin seed: 1 tsp
Mustard seed: ½ tsp
Dried red chillies: 2
Green chillies: 3
Garlic: 3 cloves (16g)
Ginger: 1 slice (16g)
Cumin powder: 1/2 tsp
Turmeric: ¼ tsp
Salt: 1 tsp
Method
• Wash okra and dry well with a cotton cloth
• Cut the okra into thin slices
• Wash potatoes and chop into small tiny squares
• On the stove, heat a pan at medium flame and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds, mustard seeds and dried red chillies
• When seeds start crackling, add green chillies and thinly chopped onions. Fry for a few seconds then add potatoes
• Mix well and cover with lid for two minutes
• Remove the lid and stir. Cover the lid again for two minutes
• Add okra, mix and close the lid for another five minutes. Cook on low heat
• Grind ginger and garlic on a mortar and pestle
• Add ginger and garlic, fry for a minute then close the lid again for three minutes
• Stir again then add cumin powder, turmeric and salt. Mix and fry for two minutes on medium-low heat. Cover for an additional two minutes
• Take off the lid and stir for a minute
• The potatoes and okra are cooked by now. Add chopped tomatoes, mix the curry and cover with the lid for the final two minutes
• Spicy Okra Curry is now ready to serve. Garnish with cilantro and enjoy
Total time: About an hour
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Serves: Six people
Diet: Vegan/ Vegetarian
Meal: Main Course
Tip
The curry blends well with rice or roti and golveda ko achaar on the side. This recipe can also be a good topping for sandwiches, wraps and pizzas.
