Vendakka Curry
Ingredients
Okra (Vendakka) – 150-200 gms, sliced 1″ lengthwiseCoriander powder – 1 1/2 tsp
Turmeric powder – 1/4 tsp
Pepper powder – 1/4 – 1/2 tsp
Aniseed (perumjeerakam) powder – 1/2 tsp
Cinnamon – a small piece
Cardamom pods – 2
Cloves – 2
Onion – 1 medium, finely sliced
Ginger – 1 tsp, chopped
Thin coconut milk – 1 1/2 cup
Thick coconut milk – 1/2 cup
Chopped cashews – 1 tbsp (optional)
Salt
Oil
Curry leaves
Instructions
Grind all the powders and whole spices to a fine paste, by adding 1- 1 1/2 tbsp water. Heat oil in a pan and saute the sliced okra for a few mins and keep it aside.
In the same pan, add the sliced onion and chopped ginger and curry leaves. Cook till the onions turn light golden brown in colour. Add the ground paste to this and cook for 2-3 mins or till the oil appears. Add thin coconut milk and let it boil.
Add the okra and salt and simmer till the okra cooks and gravy thickens. Add the thick coconut milk and simmer for 3-4 more mins and remove from fire. Garnish with some freshly ground pepper, dont omit this. It enhances the flavour of the dish.
If you are using cashews, soak it in hot water for 5-10 mins. Grind it to a smooth paste. Add this paste to the thick coconut milk and mix well and follow the rest of the recipe.