Ladies Finger Stir Fry (Vendakka Varuthathu)

To make Ladies Finger Stir Fry, start by washing and wiping the ladies finger (okra) to remove excess water. Chop them into small pieces. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds; once they pop, add the chopped ladies finger and sauté on high flame for about 5 minutes. Then, add shallots and sauté for another 2 minutes. Finally, mix in chilly powder, turmeric powder, salt, and grated coconut, and sauté until everything is well-fried.

Yes, Ladies Finger Stir Fry (Vendakka Varuthathu) is completely vegan as it contains only vegetables, spices, and oil. It’s a great option for those following a plant-based diet.

If you can't find ladies finger (okra), you can substitute it with green beans or zucchini. While the flavor will differ slightly, these vegetables can provide a similar texture and work well with the spices used in the stir fry.

To store leftover Ladies Finger Stir Fry, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Ladies Finger Stir Fry (Vendakka Varuthathu) pairs wonderfully with boiled rice, but you can also serve it alongside chapati or dosa for a complete meal. Adding a side of dal or yogurt can enhance the flavors and provide a balanced diet.