Go Back

Rajasthani Besanwali Bhindi: Crispy Okra with a Gram Flour Twist

Discover the culinary delights of Rajasthan with this flavorful Besanwali Bhindi recipe.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine Indian, Rajasthani
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup besan gram flour
  • 15-20 small ladyfingers okra (bhindi)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
  • 2 tsp red chili powder adjust for spice preference
  • 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder
  • 1 tsp dry mango powder amchur
  • 4 tbsp oil
  • 1/2 tsp nigella seeds kalonji
  • 8-10 small shallots or 2-3 medium onions
  • Salt to taste

For Garnishing

  • Fresh coriander leaves

Instructions
 

  • Prep the okra: Trim the ends of the okra and make a slit along one side, but don't cut all the way through.
    15-20 small ladyfingers
  • Spice it up: In a bowl, combine salt, turmeric powder, garam masala, roasted cumin powder, amchur, fennel seeds, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Mix well.
    1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 1/2 tsp fennel seeds, 2 tsp red chili powder, 1 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder, 1 tsp dry mango powder, Salt to taste, 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • Stuff the okra: Fill the slits in the okra with the spice mixture. Rub any remaining spice mix over the okra and toss with a tablespoon of oil. Set aside.
    15-20 small ladyfingers
  • Sauté the base: Heat the remaining oil in a pan or wok. Add the nigella seeds and sauté until fragrant.
    4 tbsp oil, 1/2 tsp nigella seeds
  • Onion time: Add the shallots (or sliced onions) and cook for a minute until softened.
    8-10 small shallots
  • Golden besan: Stir in the gram flour and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
    1/4 cup besan
  • Star of the show: Gently add the stuffed okra to the pan and mix well.
    15-20 small ladyfingers
  • Low and slow: Lower the heat, cover the pan, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The okra should be tender and crispy.
  • Finishing touches: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot alongside roti or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
    Fresh coriander leaves