Okra fry/Okra Sambhar/Okra in yogurt.....

Okra Fry....

Okra Sambhar....

Okra is a rich source of many nutrients, including fiber, vitamin B6 and folic acid
For best cooking results, okra should be fresh (not frozen). The pods should be small (3 inches or so long), or the okra becomes tough and stringy. If forced to use frozen okra, remove as much of the moisture as possible before cooking by spreading on a paper towel, or patting it dry after it thaws, etc.
"Avoid cooking okra in pans made of iron, copper or brass for their chemical properties turns the fruit black
Here are some of the authentic South Indian Okra delicacies which are simple and yummy...

Okra Fry:
2cups chopped okra/Bendekai
1tsp red chilly powder/paprika
salt as needed
oil 2tbsp
1tsp mustard seeds
Method: In a pan, heat oil, add the mustard seeds till it splutters.. Now add the chopped okra and fry till all the moisture is gone and it starts getting crispier..(Tip: avoid mixing continuously as this will make the fry sticky).. When its crispy.. add chilly powder and salt and mix well.
This can be served with chapati/bread/rice or eaten as it is....

Okra Sambhar:
2cups okra chopped into big chunks
2tbsp toor dall (boiled)
tamarind paste 1tsp
sambhar powder 2 tsp)
1tsp jaggery
Seasoning: oil, mustard seeds, hing, jeera
For garnish: Cilantro
Method: In a pan, add the oil and seasonings.. Now add the chopped okra and fry lightly till the okra is coated with oil and becomes soft but holds its shape..
Now add the boiled dal with water, tamarind paste, jaggery and sambhar powder and mixwell. Boil with a closed lid for 5min till it comes to a boil..
Now add cilantro and salt and mix well.
This can be served with boiled rice....

Okra in Yogurt:
1cup chopped okra (microwave it till it gets soft and loses its rawness)
1cup yogurt(beat it lightly)
Grind: 2tbsp fresh coconut, 1tsp toor dal, 1 tsp jeera, 1tsp red chilly powder, 1/2inch ginger root, 1tsp black pepper) to a fine paste...

Method:In a pan heat 2tsp oil, add hing andmustar seeds.. Now add the boiled okra and fry for 2mins.. Now add the ground paste and mix well for 4mins..
Finally add the yogurt and salt and turn off the heat..
Serve this with rice...