Okra (Ladies Finger) Masala

This dish is from my mother-in-law's recipe bank. I had never seen okra being prepared in this fashion before marriage. Out here, ladies finger is not available at all grocery stores, so it is a must buy when ever I shop at the Indian store. I prefer using okra this way or in a typical sambhar method. Either method is well suited with steamed rice. Give it a try!
 
Ladies Finger Masala

Ingredients:
Ladies finger/Okra: 250gms
Red chilli powder: 1tsp
Coriander powder: 2tsp
Turmeric powder: a pinch
Jeera powder: 1/2tsp
Black pepper powder: 1/4tsp
Yogurt: 2tbsp
Garlic paste: 11/2tsp
Salt
Mustard seeds: 1/4tsp
Split urad dal: 1/2tsp
Finely chopped onion: 1 medium size
Oil: 2tsp

Method:
Clean, snip off the ends of the ladies finger & make a lengthwise nick in the centre (make sure not  to slit the okra).
Mix red chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, jeera powder, black pepper powder, yogurt, garlic paste &salt.
Marinate the ladiesfinger in the above mixture for 15-20 minutes.
In a pan heat oil add mustard seeds let it splutter, then add urad dal, onion saute' for 1 minute.
Add the marinated ladiesfinger along with the marinade & sprinkle water.
Close with a lid & allow it to cook on low flame till the ladies finger is done.
Serve with steamed rice.