Navdhari Bhindi also known as the Shravani Bhendi or Gavathi Bhendi in Marathi is a variety of the lady’s finger/okra.
- Compared to the regular ladies’ fingers, Navdhari bhindi is thicker, firmer, and longer.
- It gets its name Navdhari from the 9 distinct segments that it has on its surface.
- It has a distinct Whitish green or light-green to yellowish-green color.
Texture:
- If you cut it open, unlike the regular bhindi it isn’t sticky.
- It is more fibrous.
Availability:
- It is available only during Shravan’s specified period, mainly from late August to early October, and thus gets its name “Shravani bhindi”.
- Easily available in the local markets of Mumbai, and Kokan.
Purchasing:
- It can easily be stored in the fridge for at least a week.
How to use it?
- Wash thoroughly and then pat it dry.
- Cut into vertical strips of rings as per the recipe demands.
How does it taste?
This variety of lady’s finger is firmer, crisp, subtly sweet on the palate
Here is a quick recipe for a sabzi:
- Heat oil in a dekchi. Add in mustard and let it crackle.
- Add in green chillies followed by finely chopped onion.
- Saute till it turns pink to pinkish brown.
- Add in the Bhindi rings. Mix well and let it cook for 7-10 mins.
- Finally, add in salt and any other flavouring/ garnish that you like, and then serve hot.
Other culinary uses:
- Sabzi
- Gravies
- Stir fry
- Stuffed Okra
Also make sure to read about other seasonal ingredients like – Hurda, kantola, kante kanagi, etc
