As a young professional who is always on the go, I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that I can whip up in no time. And one dish that never disappoints is the Okra Saute or Bhaji, a classic Bengali vegetable dish that is packed with flavor and nutrition.
Bhaji is a common cooking style in Bengali cuisine, and it involves sauteing or stir-frying vegetables with a blend of spices and herbs. The result is a delicious and healthy dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. Bhaji is a versatile cooking style that can be used with a variety of vegetables and greens, from potatoes and eggplant to spinach and fenugreek leaves.
In Bengali cuisine, sauteed vegetables are a staple dish that is enjoyed by both young and old alike. The Okra Saute, in particular, is a popular variation of Bhaji that is loved for its unique texture and taste. Okra, or lady’s fingers, is a versatile vegetable that is commonly used in Indian and Bengali cuisine. It has a distinct flavor and texture that works well with a range of spices and herbs.
The Okra Saute is a quick and easy recipe that can be made in just a few minutes. As a busy professional, I appreciate that it takes less time to prepare, giving me more time to focus on other things. Plus, it’s a healthy and nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
But the Okra Saute is not the only Bhaji that can be made quickly and easily. In fact, there are many vegetables that can be sauteed in the same way, such as potatoes, cauliflower, and green beans. These vegetables are readily available in most grocery stores and can be used to create a variety of delicious and healthy dishes.
One of the best things about Bhaji is that it allows you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. You can use a variety of spices and herbs to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste. For instance, you can use cumin, coriander, and turmeric to create a classic Indian flavor, or you can add a touch of chili powder to give it a spicy kick.
As a Bengali, I grew up eating Bhaji with almost every meal. It was a staple dish that my mother would make for us, using whatever vegetables were in season. Bhaji was a way to make the most out of the fresh produce that was available, and it was a healthy and nutritious way to enjoy vegetables.
In Bengali cuisine, vegetables are not just a source of nutrition, but they are also an integral part of the region’s culinary and cultural heritage. Bengalis have a deep appreciation for fresh produce, and they have mastered the art of cooking it in a way that preserves its natural flavors and textures.
In conclusion, the Okra Saute or Bhaji is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to make and perfect for busy professionals like myself. Bhaji is a common cooking style in Bengali cuisine that can be used with a range of vegetables and greens, making it a versatile and flexible recipe that you can customize to your liking. Whether you’re a fan of okra or not, there’s no denying that Bhaji is a great way to enjoy vegetables in a flavorful and nutritious way.
Okra Sauté / Bhaji
Ingredients
- 350 gm Okra / Ladyfinger sliced
- 3 red dried chili
- 2 green chili slit in half
- 2 garlic cloves chopped
- 1 cup onions chopped
- 3/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp salt to taste
- cilantro for garnish
- 1.5 tbsp cooking oil
Instructions
- In a frying pan, add oil and sauté onions, red chili, green chili and garlic for 5 minutes
- When onion is golden brown, add turmeric powder and salt and sauté for another 5 minutes
- Add okra to the pan and sauté with spices
- Close lid and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes. Check if sauté is getting stuck to pan. If it does, add a little bit of water (~1/4 cup)
- Sauté on medium high heat for 5 minutes to give a fried flavor.
- Garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve with hot rice!
Nutrition