Delicious South Indian Okra Pachadi Recipe for a Satisfying Lunch

 Here's a delicious South Indian Okra Pachadi (Vendakkai Pachadi) recipe that's perfect for a satisfying lunch. This dish is a traditional Tamil Nadu-style yogurt-based side, offering a refreshing balance of flavors with a creamy texture.

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Okra Pachadi (Vendakkai Thayir Pachadi) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 200g okra (lady’s finger), chopped
• 1 cup curd (yogurt), whisked
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 green chili, finely chopped
• ½ tsp mustard seeds
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• 1-2 dry red chilies
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1 tbsp coconut, grated (optional)
• 1 tbsp oil (preferably coconut or sesame oil)
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Okra:

• Wash and dry the okra thoroughly before chopping.
• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan and sauté the chopped okra until it turns crispy and is no longer sticky. Keep aside.

2. Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):

• In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed.
• Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds; let them splutter.
• Toss in dry red chilies, curry leaves, and green chilies, and sauté for a few seconds.
• Add the finely chopped onions (if using) and cook until translucent.

3. Assemble the Pachadi:

• In a mixing bowl, whisk the curd until smooth.
• Add salt and grated coconut (if using).
• Mix in the sautéed okra and prepared tempering.
• Stir well and serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Okra Pachadi as a side dish with steamed rice and sambar, rasam, or paruppu (dal).
• It also pairs well with rotis or dosa for a light, satisfying meal.