There’s something utterly soul-stirring about the aroma of Kukuri Bhindi wafting through the air. Every crispy bite, imbued with spices, speaks of an ancient culinary tradition that transforms simple okra into a masterpiece of flavors. I’ve journeyed through this recipe, perfecting each nuance to bring you a taste of India that’s as authentic as it is magical. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together, where each bite tells a tale of flavors untold.
Kukuri Bhindi Recipe
Kukuri Bhindi
Ingredients
- 500 g Okra
- 3 tbsp. Besan or Gram Flour
- ½-1 tsp. Red Chili Powder
- 1 tsp. Cumin seeds roasted
- 1 tsp. Dried Mint Leaves
- ¼ – ½ tsp. Haldi or Turmeric
- 1 tsp. Sukha Dhaniya or Coriander Powder
- 2 tbsp. Lemon Juice
- 2 tbsp. Chaat Masala
- salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Bhindi or okra first by washing it then put it on paper towels to dry quickly. Once the drying is done, cut the okra into half then remove all of the seeds inside it. Slice the de-seeded okra thinly before setting it aside.
- Next, take a plastic or zip-lock bag then pour all of the dry ingredients inside it, including the besan. Close and shake the bag so that everything is mixed well.
- Next, open the plastic bag again and put the thinly sliced okra inside. Once done, close the bag again and give it a good shake until every okra slice becomes coated with the spicy besan mixture.
- Transfer the coated okra into a strainer and shake off excess besan mixture. Once done, deep-fry the coated okra in heated oil until the okra slices float on top of the pan.
- Transfer the deep-fried Bhindi or okra into a plate lined with some paper towels in order to drain the excess oil. If you don’t want to deep-fry the okra because of the oil, you can bake it instead in an oven heated at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 – 15 minutes.
- Once finished, transfer the Kurkuri Bhindi into serving plates, sprinkle with some Chaat Masala and serve it hot along with some Dum Aloo or Palak Paneer.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Air Fryer Kukuri Bhindi: A Modern Twist to a Traditional Delight
Ingredients:
- 500 grams of okra (bhindi)
- 2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
- 1 tablespoon rice flour
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
Method:
- Preparation: Begin by washing the okra and patting them dry thoroughly. Slice them lengthwise to create that signature Kukuri style. Ensure they are completely dry; this is pivotal for achieving that perfect crispness.
- Mixing the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the okra with gram flour, rice flour, and all the aromatic spices. Drizzle in the oil and toss everything gently until the okra is well-coated with the flavorsome mix.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Turn on your air fryer and preheat to 180°C (356°F). The anticipation of tasting the crispy, spicy Kukuri Bhindi starts building up as the air fryer hums to life.
- Cooking: Arrange the spiced okra in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring each piece has its space for that perfect crispy texture. Cook for about 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally for even cooking.
- Checking the Crispiness: Around the 15-minute mark, check one piece. It should be golden and crispy. If needed, cook for an additional few minutes. The aromatic spices will fill the air, a fragrant testament to the masterpiece you’ve created.
- Serving: Serve immediately, for Kukuri Bhindi is a dish best relished hot. Each bite, crispy and infused with spices, promises to be a melody of flavors, echoing the traditional taste yet embodying a modern, health-conscious touch.
Tips for making Kukuri Bhindi
Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments to Elevate the Experience:
Consider serving Kukuri Bhindi on a bed of steaming basmati rice, delicately flavored with cumin seeds. The mildness of the rice wonderfully offsets the spice-infused okra. For a touch of sophistication, a dollop of cooling mint yogurt dip on the side not only adds a vibrant color contrast but a refreshing flavor juxtaposition.
- Garnishing with Finesse:
A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander or a dash of lemon juice just before serving can add a refreshing zing and lift the overall flavor profile. It’s not just about adding color; it’s about introducing a layer of complexity, a touch of vibrancy to the warm, earthy spices.
- Beverage Pairing:
A chilled glass of chaas (Indian buttermilk) or a warm cup of masala chai would impeccably complement the spices, balancing the heat and adding a refreshing or cozy touch to the overall dining experience.
Cooking Tips
- Mastering the Spice Mix: The blend of spices is a sonnet, a melody. Don’t just mix; blend them with affection, ensuring each okra slice is coated with love and flavors. Freshly ground spices make all the difference, awakening an aroma that’s pure and intoxicating.
- The Art of Frying:Whether you’re using an air fryer or the traditional pan, avoid overcrowding. Each slice of okra deserves space; it’s in this solitude that it crisps to perfection, soaking in the heat, the spices weaving their magic.
- Common Mistake: Impatience: One common pitfall is the rush. Patience is your companion. Allow the okra to cook undisturbed until it achieves that golden hue, that crispy texture. Adjust the flame to ensure it doesn’t burn, for in the golden crispiness lies the soul of Kukuri Bhindi.
FAQs of Kukuri Bhindi
- Can Kukuri Bhindi be stored for later use?Indeed, it can be stored, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to savor its crispy texture. If needed, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to regain the crispiness.
- How do I prevent the okra from becoming slimy?The key is to ensure the okra is thoroughly dry before slicing and mixing with spices. Also, avoid washing after cutting, as contact with moisture can lead to a slimy texture.
- Can I prepare Kukuri Bhindi without using gram flour?Yes, though gram flour adds a distinctive flavor and helps in achieving crispiness. If unavailable, you can use cornflour or rice flour as a substitute.
- Is there a keto-friendly version of this recipe?Absolutely! Replace gram flour with almond flour to make it keto-friendly. Ensure to monitor the cooking time as almond flour may cook differently.
- What’s the secret to perfectly crispy Kukuri Bhindi? Patience and the right temperature are key. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer or pan, and ensure the okra is well-spaced to allow even cooking and crispiness. Adjust the temperature as needed to avoid burning.
Dive into the crispy, spicy world of Kukuri Bhindi! Discover our step-by-step recipe and unlock a world of flavors. Ready to sizzle? Click to start cooking!
Experience the culinary brilliance of Chef John at Food And Meal Restaurant. With over 20 years of global expertise, My innovative creations and unwavering dedication to cooking have earned me a well-deserved reputation. My passion for gastronomy is showcased in every dish, combining fresh, local ingredients with harmonious flavors and captivating presentations. My ability to tell a story through my food reflects my profound understanding of culture and emotion.