Ep 6. Bhindi Fry Recipe

The Bombay Chef, hosted by chef Varun Inamdar, is a cooking show that explores the rich and diverse food culture of India. The show's third season is all about exploring traditional recipes and giving them a modern twist. In episode 6, titled "Bhindi Fry Recipe," Chef Varun takes on a beloved Indian vegetable, okra, or "bhindi" in Hindi.

The episode begins with Chef Varun introducing the humble okra and its many health benefits, including its high fiber content and low calorie count. He explains that while many may find okra slimy or difficult to work with, he will teach viewers how to make a delicious dry stir-fry or "bhindi fry."

Chef Varun starts by trimming the ends of the okra and slicing them into thin rounds. He then fries them in hot oil until they turn crispy and golden brown. In a separate pan, he prepares a mix of onions, tomatoes, and spices including turmeric, coriander, cumin, and red chili powder. Once the onions and tomatoes are cooked down and the spices are fragrant, Chef Varun adds the fried okra to the mixture and stirs it all together.

Chef Varun explains that the key to a good bhindi fry is getting the texture just right. By frying the okra first, it eliminates the sliminess and gives it a crispy exterior. By adding the onion and tomato mixture and stir-frying it for a short time, the okra is cooked just enough to be tender but not mushy, retaining its crunch.

Throughout the episode, Chef Varun sprinkles in tips and tricks for working with okra, such as washing it in vinegar to prevent slime and using a cast-iron skillet for frying to ensure even heat distribution.

Once the bhindi fry is complete, Chef Varun serves it up with a side of hot, buttery garlic naan. He encourages viewers to experiment with their own variations of the recipe, such as adding in potatoes or substituting the spices for a different flavor profile.

Overall, the "Bhindi Fry Recipe" episode of The Bombay Chef season 3 is a delicious showcase of one of India's most beloved vegetables. Chef Varun demystifies okra and shows viewers how to make a simple yet flavorful dish that can be easily recreated at home.