Vendakkai Poriyal Recipe (South Indian Style Okra Stir Fry Spiced With Sambar Powder)

Step 1: To begin making the Vendakkai Poriyal Recipe, we will be using a Wok or Kadai style pan to cook the okra

Step 2: Heat a tablespoon of oil in the wok; add the mustard seeds and allow it to crackle

Step 3: Once the mustard seed crackle, add the curry leaves and the cut Vendakkai (Okra)

Step 4: Sprinkle some salt and cover the pan

Step 5: Keep the heat on medium and cook the Vendakkai (Okra), until you see its getting moist and softened (partially cooked)

Step 6: This will take about 4 to 5 minutes

Step 7: As soon as you notice moisture on the Vendakkai (Okra) and it is partially cooked, place a large ladle in the wok and cover the wok again

Step 8: With the ladle in place and the lid slightly ajar, we are allowing the steam to escape from the wok at the same time allow the Vendakkai (Okra) to get cooked through

Step 9: The reason we are keeping the lid slightly ajar, is so that we are letting some moisture escape and prevent the Vendakkai (Okra) to get mushy and gooey

Step 10: Once you notice the Vendakkai (Okra) is cooked through and is soft, add the sambar powder, asafoetida and give it a stir

Step 11: Stir-fry for another 3 to 4 minutes keeping the wok open so the spices get well blended into the Vendakkai (Okra) Poriyal

Step 12: Once done, check the salt and spice levels and adjust to suit your taste

Step 13: Serve the Vendakkai (Okra) Poriyal along with steamed rice for lunch