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Our Recipes

Every week in our newsletter, we share a “recipe” either from the Cress Menu, a Cooking Class, or just something that we hope you will enjoy, try, and most importantly, make your own. Sometimes, the recipe will be without measurements, rather only ingredients. Sometimes, we will try to include suggested amounts to accomplish the desired flavour profile. But we must be clear that those measurements aren't meant to be taken too seriously (except in the case of vinaigrettes, classical sauces, or desserts). Please feel free to drop us a line as we will enjoy reading your feedback should you decide to try them, so please do not hesitate to let me know. Click on the links on the right to view the recipes.

BHINDI (OKRA) MASALA
INGREDIENTS

2 lb, washed and dried okra (I prefer the "emerald" variety), cut into biased 3/4 inch pieces
1 tbs mustard seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
10 fresh curry leaves (usually available in Indian Grocery stores)
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp red chili powder (not the blend used for "Chili", rather, your preferred dried hot pepper powder, say cayenne)
1/2 tsp mango powder (optional)
1 red onion, peeled, sliced thinly
1 tsp minced fresh ginger
1 tsp minced fresh garlic
1 tsp minced fresh green chili (say jalapeno)
1 cup fresh diced tomatoes
1 fresh lemon
1 tbs freshly chopped cilantro leaves
kosher salt, to taste
1/4 cup vegetable or olive oil

PROCEDURE

In a large skillet, heat the oil on a medium heat, add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves until the mustard seeds start popping. Add the ginger and garlic and stir for 20 seconds. Next, add the onions and saute until translucent. Now add all the dry spices and stir for 30 seconds or so. NOTE: Season with salt in stages. Now add the okra and stir so that the spices coat all the okra. If needed add more oil. Cook the okra, stirring occasionally for about 30 minutes or so. Now add the tomatoes and green chilies. Stir, cover and let simmer on low heat for an additional 15 minutes, stirring as needed. When the okra is cooked to the desired doneness, remove the lid and "cook off" any additional liquid until the dish is mostly "dry". Finish by squeezing the juice of one lemon and stirring in the fresh cilantro. Serve with any flat beard like naan or even pita.

Hari's Recipes