Bhindi Masala

Bhindi is Hindi for okra, which in India is picked young and small before it develops that slimy quality. You could also substitute small eggplant for the okra – just cut it into chunks and deep-fry before adding to the mix. Any vegetable preparation like this that is quite dry (not swimming in sauce) is an ideal accompaniment to dal. Of course, dal can be served alone or with any number of Indian dishes, but here I have chosen to celebrate the prominence of vegetables on the Indian table.<