Bendakaya Pulusu | Andhra Style Vendakai Puli Kuzhambu | Ladies Finger Tamarind Curry from India| Gluten Free and Vegan Recipe

Hi Supermoms,

Andhra Cuisine is known for it's spice. Pulusu is a part of everyday Andhra homestyle lunch. The tamarind or 'Puli' is used to give the tanginess to this gravy. The gravy is neither thick or too watery. The addition of onions and tomatoes add more colour and flavour to the Pulusu. Vendakai/Bendakai Pulusu is a favourite at home. With just a few ingredients you can make this amazing dish at home .

Bendakaya Pulusu | Andhra Style Vendakai Puli Kuzhambu:

Preparation time : 15 minutes

Cooking time : 25 minutes

Serves : 4

1 cup = 250 ml cup

Ingredients :

25 ladies finger/okra/bendakaya ( wash, pat dry and cut them into 1/2 " pieces)

10 shallots ( peeled)

1 tomato ( finely chopped)

gooseberry size tamarind ( soak in 1/2 cup warm water for 10 minutes and extract juice)

1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder 

1 teaspoon Kashmiri chilli powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder/dhania 

salt to taste 

For tempering :

1 tablespoon sesame oil 

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

2-3 green chillies

1 sprig curry leaves ( roughly torn) 

For garnish :

handful of finely chopped cilantro/coriander leaves ( optional)

Method :

1. Heat a kadai or earthen vessel over low flame.

2. Heat oil.

3. Temper with the ingredients given for tempering.

4. Add shallots , tomatoes and  ladies finger.

5. Add the turmeric powder, chilli powder,  coriander powder and allow the mixture to fry for 3-4 minutes.

6. Add the tamarind juice and salt.

7. Dilute the tamarind juice with another cup of water.

8. Close and allow the pulusu to cook for at least 10 minutes over low heat.

Chef tip : Adjust water quantity 

9. Once the ladies finger is cooked and the gravy has thickened just a little, switch off.

10. Garnish with cilantro.

Your delicious Bendakaya Pulusu is ready. Serve it along with hot rice and ghee. 

Happy Cooking !

With love,

Masterchefmom