Vendakkai Mandi
Veg
Vegan
Vendakkai Mandi is a tangy and spicy okra curry made with tamarind, spices, and coconut. It's a popular dish in Tamil Brahmin cuisine, often served with rice.
Cuisines
Tamil Brahmin
Best for
Lunch
Dinner
Recipe
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 25 min
Total: 40 min
2-3 servings
Ingredients
|
200 grams | Okra |
|
1 cup | Rice Water , from rinsing rice |
|
1 tablespoon | Tamarind , pulp |
|
2 tablespoons | Coconut oil |
|
1 teaspoon | Mustard Seed |
|
1 teaspoon | Urad dal |
|
1 teaspoon | Chana dal |
|
1 pinch | Asafoetida |
|
2 | Red Chili , dried |
|
1 sprig | Curry Leaf |
|
1 teaspoon | Sambar powder |
|
0.5 teaspoon | Turmeric powder |
|
— | Salt , to taste |
Instructions
- 1 Wash the okra thoroughly and pat dry with a clean cloth to remove moisture.
- 2 Cut the okra into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
- 3 Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
- 4 Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- 5 Add urad dal, chana dal, and a pinch of asafoetida. Sauté until the dals turn golden brown.
- 6 Add dried red chilies and curry leaves, and sauté for a few seconds.
- 7 Add the chopped okra and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it is cooked and no longer sticky.
- 8 Add turmeric powder, sambar powder, and salt. Mix well.
- 9 Pour in the rice water and tamarind pulp. Stir to combine.
- 10 Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the raw smell of tamarind disappears and the flavors meld together.
- 11 Serve hot with steamed rice.
Tips
Ensure the okra is dry before cooking to prevent it from becoming slimy.