Okra/Lady Finger/Bendakaya/Bhindi Curry

Okra is low in calories and is a good source of many nutrients including vitamin
B6 and C, fiber, calcium, and folic acid. It is effective for the prevention of neural
tube defects in developing fetuses mainly due to its high content of vitamin B6,
calcium, fiber, and folic acid.


Ingredients:

1 Bowl okra/Bhindi
1 Red Chilly
1/2 tbs Channa Dal
1/2 tbs Urad Dal
1/4 Cumin Seeds
1/4 Mustard
4 or 5 curry leaves
2 tbs oil
Salt to taste
Red Chilly powder to taste.
4 to 5 tbs Channa Dal powder
(If you want to make fried channa dal powder Click the below link)
(http://padmaja13.blogspot.com/search/label/POWDERS)

Health Benefits of Okra:

1.The superior fiber found in okra helps to stabilize the blood sugar by curbing
the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract.

2.Okra's mucilage binds cholesterol and bile acid carrying toxins dumped into it
by the filtering liver.

3.Okra helps lubricate the large intestines due to its bulk laxative qualities. The
okra fiber absorbs water and ensures bulk in stools. This helps prevent and
improve constipation. Unlike harsh wheat bran, which can irritate or injure the
intestinal tract, okra's mucilage soothes, and okra facilitates elimination more
comfortably by its slippery characteristic. Okra binds excess cholesterol and
toxins (in bile acids).

These, if not evacuated, will cause numerous health problems. Okra also
assures easy passage out of waste from the body. Okra is completely
non-toxic, non-habit forming, has no adverse side effects, is full of nutrients,
and is economically within reach of most individuals unlike over-the-counter
drugs.

4.Okra fiber is excellent for feeding the good bacteria (probiotics). This contributes
to the health of the intestinal tract.

5.Okra is a supreme vegetable for those feeling weak, exhausted, and suffering
from depression.

6.Okra is used for healing ulcers and to keep joints limber. It helps to neutralize
acids, being very alkaline, and provides a temporary protective coating for the
digestive tract.

7.Okra treats lung inflammation, sore throat, and irritable bowel syndrome.

8.Okra has been used successfully in experimental blood plasma replacements.

9.Okra is good for summer heat treatment.

10.Okra is good for constipation.

11.Okra is good in normalizing the blood sugar and cholesterol level.

12.Okra is good for asthma. Okra's vitamin C is an antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory, which curtail the development of asthma symptoms.

13.Okra is good for atherosclerosis.

14.Okra is believed to protect some forms of cancer expansion, especially
colorectal cancer.

15.Eating okra helps to support the structure of capillaries.

16.Some information shows that eating okra lowers the risk of cataracts.

17.Okra is good for preventing diabetes.

18.Okra protects you from pimples and maintains smooth and beautiful skin.


Preparation:

1 Wash and discard the ends of okra by cutting it off.
2 Cut remaining Okra into around 1/2 inch piece sizes.
3 Heat the oil in a pan. Add Channa dal, urad dal,red chilly,cumin seeds and
mustard. When mustard starts popping add curry leaves.
4.Stir-fry until all the ingredients are light golden brown.
5. Add okra and stir-fry for around 15 minutes in a medium heat.
6. Add Turmeric and salt mix them all once, allow them to cook for 10 minutes,
covered to cook on medium heat.
7. Finally add Channa dal powder and mix well. After 5 minutes, remove the cover
and stir them once. Reduce the heat to low flame and let them cook openly.
8. Okra/Bhendi curry is ready to serve with hot rice.