Okra in Yoghurt

Okra in Yoghurt Recipe from India - Ingredients: okra, yogurt, green chilies, curry leaves, mustard seeds, salt, oil

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Okra in Yoghurt is a delicious and unique dish that combines the crispy texture of fried okra with the creamy tanginess of yogurt. This recipe is a popular dish in South Indian cuisine and is perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting.

History

The origins of Okra in Yoghurt can be traced back to South India, where okra is a commonly used vegetable in many traditional dishes. This recipe is a creative way to enjoy okra and is often served as a side dish or appetizer in Indian households.

Ingredients

0.25 kg okra, washed, dried, edges trimmed, and cut into 0.5 inch long pieces
0.75-1 cup thick plain yogurt
1-2 green chilies
1 sprig curry leaves
0.25 tsp mustard seeds
salt
oil (for deep frying)

How to prepare

Heat oil for deep frying.
Fry the okra pieces until they are crisp and light brown (some greenish color should be retained, do not fully brown).
Drain well.
Whip yogurt and salt until smooth and creamy.
Add the fried okra.
Heat oil, add mustard seeds and let them splutter, then add the green chilies and curry leaves.
Fry for a minute.
Add the mixture to the yogurt.

Variations

You can add spices like turmeric, cumin, or coriander to the yogurt mixture for added flavor. You can also try adding chopped tomatoes or onions for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the okra stays crispy, make sure to fry them until they are light brown but still retain some green color. Be careful not to overcook the okra, as they can become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Okra in Yoghurt can be served as a side dish with rice or roti. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy snack.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the okra until crispy is the key technique in this recipe. Make sure to fry them in hot oil to achieve the perfect texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have okra, you can try using green beans or zucchini as a substitute. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a thicker consistency.

Make Ahead Tips

You can fry the okra ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply mix them with the yogurt mixture and tempering.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Okra in Yoghurt in a small bowl garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of red chili powder for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with rice dishes like biryani or pulao. It also goes well with Indian breads like roti or naan.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Okra in Yoghurt contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used for frying and the type of yogurt used.

Carbohydrates

Okra is a low-carb vegetable, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. The yogurt in this recipe also adds some carbohydrates, but overall, this dish is relatively low in carbs.

Fats

The main source of fat in this recipe comes from the oil used for deep frying the okra. To reduce the fat content, you can try baking the okra instead of frying them.

Proteins

Yogurt is a good source of protein in this recipe, making it a satisfying and filling dish. The okra also contains some protein, adding to the overall protein content of the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Okra is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as folate and magnesium. Yogurt is a good source of calcium and vitamin D. This dish is a great way to incorporate these essential vitamins and minerals into your diet.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. If you have a dairy allergy, you can try using a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Summary

Overall, Okra in Yoghurt is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. It is a great option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.

Summary

Okra in Yoghurt is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting. With its crispy fried okra and creamy yogurt mixture, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Okra in Yoghurt. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning to cook alongside my own grandmother in her cozy kitchen. She was a master in the art of cooking and had a wealth of knowledge when it came to traditional recipes from our region.

One day, as we were preparing a meal together, she pulled out a worn and stained recipe card from her recipe box. It was for a dish that I had never heard of before - Okra in Yoghurt. My curiosity was piqued as she explained that it was a dish that was popular in our region and known for its unique combination of flavors and textures.

As my grandmother began to walk me through the steps of preparing the dish, I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped, sautéed, and stirred the ingredients together. She had a way of making even the most complex recipes seem simple and straightforward. I hung on her every word, eager to learn the secrets behind this mysterious dish.

She explained that the key to making Okra in Yoghurt was to first cook the okra until it was tender and slightly crispy. This would help to reduce the sliminess that okra is known for and give the dish a delicious texture. She also emphasized the importance of using fresh, high-quality yogurt to create a creamy and tangy sauce that would complement the okra perfectly.

As we sat down to enjoy the finished dish, I marveled at the flavors that danced on my tongue. The tender okra was perfectly balanced by the tangy yogurt sauce, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying. I knew in that moment that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my own version of Okra in Yoghurt, drawing inspiration from my grandmother's recipe and adding my own twists and variations. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all been impressed by the unique flavors and textures of this dish.

I have also had the pleasure of teaching this recipe to my own children and grandchildren, passing down the tradition of cooking and sharing delicious food with loved ones. It brings me great joy to see them gather around the table, enjoying a meal that has been passed down through generations.

As I look back on that day in my grandmother's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the knowledge and skills that she imparted to me. Her recipes have become a part of who I am, connecting me to my roots and the rich culinary heritage of our region.

And so, whenever I make Okra in Yoghurt, I am reminded of the love and dedication that went into perfecting this dish. It is a reminder of the bond that ties me to my past and the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with those I hold dear.