Crispy Okra Raita Recipe – Kerala Style Yogurt Dip

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Crispy Okra Raita Recipe – Kerala Style Yogurt Dip

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a side dish that’s both refreshing and has a little bit of a kick. This Crispy Okra Raita is exactly that! It’s a delightful blend of textures – the satisfying crunch of fried okra with the cool, soothing yogurt. I first made this when I was trying to recreate a dish I had at a small Kerala restaurant, and honestly, it’s been a family favorite ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average raita. The crispy okra takes it to a whole new level. It’s quick to make, perfect for a hot summer day, and adds a lovely textural contrast to any meal. Plus, the Kerala-style variation with coconut and cumin is just… chef’s kiss. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up and how much flavor it packs!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious raita:

• 300 grams ladies finger (okra)
• ¾ cup curd (plain yogurt)
• 2 green chillies, chopped
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 red chilli
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• Oil, as needed
• Salt, to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Getting these right will make all the difference.

Ladies Finger (Okra) – Choosing & Preparing

Look for tender, bright green okra. Avoid any that are bruised or have blemishes. The key to avoiding slimy okra? Make sure you wash and thoroughly dry it before slicing. I usually pat it down with a clean kitchen towel. Then, trim the ends and slice it thinly – about ¼ inch thick is perfect.

Curd (Yogurt) – Type & Consistency

I prefer using full-fat, plain yogurt for the best flavor and creamy texture. Dahi is ideal, of course! You want a yogurt that’s not too runny, but also not overly thick. If your yogurt is a bit too thick, you can whisk in a tablespoon or two of milk to reach the desired consistency.

Green Chillies – Heat Level & Varieties

Green chillies add a lovely warmth. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference! Serrano or Thai green chillies will give you a good kick, while milder varieties like the Indian green chilli are perfect if you prefer a gentler heat.

Mustard Seeds – Flavor Profile

Don’t underestimate the power of mustard seeds! They add a wonderful nutty flavor when tempered in hot oil. Black mustard seeds are traditionally used in South Indian cooking.

Curry Leaves – Fresh vs. Dried

Fresh curry leaves are always best. They have a much more vibrant aroma and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, you can use dried, but use about half the amount as the flavor isn’t as potent.

Regional Variations – Kerala Style Coconut & Cumin

Want to take this raita to the next level? Try the Kerala-style variation! My grandmother always added a paste of ground coconut, cumin, and green chilli to the tempering. It adds a beautiful depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness that complements the okra perfectly.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Wash and thoroughly dry the okra. Trim the ends and slice it thinly.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Shallow fry the okra slices and chopped green chillies until they’re crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan!
3. Remove the fried okra and chillies and set them aside to cool on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. While the okra is cooling, beat the yogurt until it’s smooth and creamy.
5. Gently mix the cooled okra into the yogurt. Add salt to taste.
6. Now, let’s make the tempering! Heat a little oil in a small pan. Add the mustard seeds and wait for them to splutter.
7. Once the mustard seeds splutter, add the red chilli and curry leaves. Fry for a few seconds until the curry leaves are fragrant.
8. Pour the tempering over the okra raita. If you’re making the Kerala-style version, sauté the coconut-cumin-chilli paste with the tempering before pouring it over.
9. Give it a good mix and serve!

Expert Tips

• Crispy Okra is Key: Don’t skimp on the frying time! You want the okra to be nice and crispy, not soggy.
• Cooling is Crucial: Make sure the fried okra is completely cool before adding it to the yogurt. Otherwise, it will warm up the yogurt and make it runny.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the salt and chilli levels to your liking.

Variations

• Vegan Okra Raita: Swap the yogurt for a plant-based alternative like cashew yogurt or coconut yogurt.
• Gluten-Free Adaptations: This recipe is naturally gluten-free!
• Spice Level Adjustments – Mild to Spicy: Use fewer green chillies or remove the seeds for a milder raita. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Festival Adaptations – Serving During Onam or Diwali: This raita is a wonderful addition to a festive spread, especially during Onam or Diwali.

Serving Suggestions

This raita is incredibly versatile! It’s fantastic with:

• Biryani
• Pulao
• Paratha
• Grilled meats
• Or simply enjoyed with a side of warm roti!

Storage Instructions

Leftover raita can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The okra might lose some of its crispness over time, but it will still taste delicious!

FAQs

What is the best way to prevent okra from becoming slimy?

Drying the okra thoroughly after washing is the biggest trick! Also, frying it helps to reduce any sliminess.

Can I make this raita ahead of time?

You can fry the okra ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. However, I recommend mixing it with the yogurt and adding the tempering just before serving for the best texture.

What type of oil is best for frying the okra?

Any neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point will work well – like vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil.

Can I use Greek yogurt in this recipe?

Yes, you can! Greek yogurt will give you a thicker raita. You might want to add a tablespoon or two of milk to thin it out slightly.

Is there a way to make this raita without frying the okra?

You can roast the okra in the oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. It won’t have quite the same flavor as fried okra, but it’s a healthier alternative.

What are the health benefits of okra?

Okra is packed with nutrients! It’s a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and folate. It’s also believed to help regulate blood sugar levels.