Cooking with Pree

Vendakkai kari / ladies finger stir fry is a staple in all South Indian households. It is also probably one of the most liked vegetables by most Indian kids (and adults) next to potato. I am no exception. Vendakkai kari with vathal kuzhambu rice is one of my favorite combinations! But I do not prefer slimy soft ladies fingers (okra). I like them nice and crispy, pan fried with a slight char on them.  Pan fried ladies finger with just a hint of salt is so divine. They do not need a lot of spices or masalas. They just taste great on their own.  Another great way of cooking Ladies finger is frying them or baking them. (which is a healthier option)

My little one shares our love for ladies finger (okra). She loves to help me as I cut them. She would dry the vegetable using a paper towel and give it to me, while I cut them. I would probably save a lot more time if I did it myself, but I like to get her involved in the kitchen. Also eating raw okras is one of her favorites 🙂 I just hope her love for okras is not a phase.

This is how I usually make ladies finger for her. I do not make it very spicy. But I still add a little bit of sambar powder, so that she is exposed to different spices. You can crank up the spices and chilly when making these for adults! Also check out the notes at the end of the recipe for tips on getting slime free ladies fingers 🙂