Bhindi or okra is a green vegetable that is incredibly versatile and delicious in appearance. It is a member of the mallow family and is considered a staple in Indian cuisine. This vegetable is loved for its unique texture and flavour- a little chewy yet extremely delicious. Bhindi is widely consumed in India where it is often used in stews, curries, and soups. In this article, we are going to explore some popular varieties of bhindi that you should know about.
1. Green Bhindi: This is the most commonly consumed variety of bhindi, and it is green in color. Green bhindi is versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways. The best way to enjoy green bhindi is by stir-frying it with spices, onions, and tomatoes.
2. Red Bhindi: As the name suggests, this type of bhindi is red in color. It has a more elongated shape than the green variety and is said to be more flavorful. Red bhindi is the perfect choice for making bhindi masala, which is a popular Indian dish.
3. White Bhindi: This is another popular variety of bhindi. It is white in color, has a short size, and is more tender than the green variety. White bhindi is ideal for dishes that require quick cooking, such as stir-frying or sautéing.
4. Bhindi Mundi: This is a hybrid variety of bhindi that is grown in India. Bhindi Mundi is known for its large size and is often used in dishes where a lot of bhindi is required. It has a smooth skin and is not as sticky as other bhindi varieties.
5. Pusa Bhindi: This is a new hybrid variety of bhindi that was developed in India. Pusa bhindi is known for its high yield and can grow up to 8-10 feet tall. It produces tender, green, and elongated bhindi pods that are perfect for curries, stews, and soups.
In conclusion, bhindi is a versatile and delicious vegetable that comes in a range of colours, sizes, and shapes. Knowing the varieties of bhindi can help you choose the right one for your recipe. Whether you prefer green or red bhindi, tender or large, there is a bhindi variety to suit your needs. So next time you are looking for a vegetable to add to your curry or stew, give bhindi a try!