Vendakkai, also known as bhindi, okra, or ladies’ finger, is one of my favourite vegetables to cook with. Its tender pods and mild flavour make it a joy to prepare. Vendakkai is incredibly versatile — perfect for quick stir-fries, curries, and other easy okra recipes that you can enjoy any day.
In South Indian kitchens, it shines in simple yet aromatic dishes like poriyal, kootu, and masala curries. In this post, I’ve shared 5 of my favourite vendakkai recipes and okra recipes — 4 South Indian classics and 1 North Indian special — so you can enjoy this humble vegetable in a variety of ways.
Whether you’re looking for a quick everyday stir-fry, a comforting curry with rice, or a spicy masala dish, these recipes are easy to follow and full of flavour. I’ve also included tips on handling vendakkai, reducing its natural sliminess, and bringing out the best taste in every dish.
So grab your knife and chopping board, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of vendakkai!
5 Best Vendakkai Recipes (Bhindi / Okra) to Try Today
1. Vendakkai Poriyal (Kerala Style)
A simple yet flavourful Kerala-style stir-fry, Vendakkai Poriyal is perfect as a side dish with Kerala Matta Rice. This vegetarian recipe is quick to prepare and full of aroma, with a mild, comforting taste that makes it a South Indian classic.
2. Crispy Bhindi Fry (Kurkuri Bhindi)
Kurkuri Bhindi, meaning crispy okra, is a popular deep-fried Indian snack. Often served as a starter at Indian weddings, roadside dhabas, or restaurants, this dish is crunchy, spicy, and delicious. You can easily make it at home in about 30 minutes, and it pairs wonderfully as a side for lunch or dinner.
3. Vendakkai Puli Venjanam (Tamil Muslim Style)
Vendakkai Puli Venjanam is a tangy, hot ladies’ finger curry, traditionally served with rice and dal-based meals. This Tamil Muslim-style side dish is simple, flavourful, and perfect for adding a spicy kick to your lunch.
4. Bendakaya Vepudu (Andhra Style)
Bendakaya Vepudu is a classic Andhra-style okra fry. Often served as part of an Andhra vegetarian thali, this dish is aromatic, mildly spicy, and packed with flavour. It’s a perfect accompaniment to rice or roti and will impress your family and friends.
5. Stuffed Bendakaya (Gutti Bendakaya, Andhra Style)
Gutti Bendakaya is a dry, stuffed okra dish from Andhra Pradesh. Each pod is filled with a spiced mixture, making it a rich and flavorful side that pairs beautifully with rice or chapati. This dish is slightly more elaborate but worth the effort for special meals or festive occasions.
If you have questions about these recipes, email me at mail me at knowyourindianfoodofficial@gmail.com. Follow me on Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter for more delicious recipes.
I’d love to hear if you try these recipes — leave a comment below and share your experience.
HAPPY COOKING!
with better ingredients for better food.
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