Lady Finger are also known as okra or bhindi(Hindi) which are the popular vegetable in many cuisines. It is long and slender with a green skin and it has small, edible seeds surrounded by a gel-like substance inside it. Ladies Finger is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in various ways. It is often used in curries, stir-fries, and soups. When cooked it becomes tender and has a slightly slimy texture . In addition to its taste and texture, Ladies Finger is also known for its health benefits. It is low in calories and a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals and especially high in vitamin C, vitamin K , and folate.
What is Lady Finger?
Ladies Finger is also known as okra or bhindi(hindi) which is a vegetable with a long, slender shape and a green skin.
What does Lady Finger taste like?
When cooked, Ladies Finger has a mild, slightly earthy flavor and a soft, somewhat slimy texture.
How can I store Lady Finger?
Store unwashed Ladies Finger in a paper towel-lined container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What are some popular dishes made with Lady Finger?
Some popular dishes made with Ladies Finger include bhindi masala, okra curry, and gumbo.
How do you pick fresh Lady Finger?
Look for Ladies Finger that is brightly colored and free from soft spots.
What are the nutrition facts found in Lady finger ?
Nutritious facts 100 grams of raw Lady finger are:
Calories: 33
Protein: 1.9 grams
Carbohydrates: 7.5 grams
Dietary fiber: 3.2 grams
Sugars: 1.5 grams
Fat: 0.2 grams
Vitamin A: 283 IU
Vitamin C: 21.1 mg
Vitamin K: 31.3 mcg
Folate: 88 mcg
Calcium: 82 mg
Iron: 0.62 mg
Magnesium: 57 mg
Phosphorus: 61 mg
Potassium: 299 mg
What are the health benefits of eating Lady finger ?
Eating Lady Finger are several health benefits:
Rich in Nutrients: Ladies Finger is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins (like vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate), and minerals
Digestive Health: The fiber in Ladies Finger promotes healthy digestion by aiding in regular bowel movements and reducing the risk of digestive issues like constipation.
Weight Management: Due to its low calorie and high fiber content, Ladies Finger can help you feel full for longer, potentially aiding in weight management.
Blood Sugar Control: Ladies Finger may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a good vegetable choice for people with diabetes.
Heart Health: The fiber, vitamins, and minerals in Ladies Finger can contribute to heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Skin Health: The vitamin C in Ladies Finger is essential for collagen production, which is important for maintaining healthy skin.
Immune Support: The vitamin C and other antioxidants in Ladies Finger can help boost the immune system and protect against infections.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Ladies Finger contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
What are the recipes can be prepared from Lady finger ?
There are many delicious recipes that can be prepared using Lady Finger like:
Bhindi Masala: Sauté chopped okra with onions, tomatoes, and spices like turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chili powder until tender. Serve as a side dish with rice or bread.
Stuffed Bhindi: Slit okra lengthwise and stuff with a mixture of spices, grated coconut, and peanuts. Sauté or bake until the okra is cooked through.
Curry: Make a curry base with onions, tomatoes, and spices, then add sliced okra and simmer until cooked. Serve with rice or bread.
Fried : Coat sliced okra in a mixture of cornmeal or flour and spices, then fry until crispy. Serve as a crunchy side dish or snack.
Soup: Add sliced okra to a pot of broth with vegetables, beans, and spices to make a hearty soup.
Pickled : Preserve okra by pickling it in vinegar with spices like mustard seeds, garlic, and dill. Enjoy as a tangy snack or condiment.
What is the scientific name of Lady finger ?
The scientific name of Ladies Finger is Abelmoschus esculentus.
What vitamins are in Lady finger ?
Ladies Finger, also known as okra or bhindi, is rich in several vitamins, including:
Vitamin C: Okra is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function, skin health, and wound healing.
Vitamin K: Okra contains vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting and bone health.
Folate (Vitamin B9): Folate is essential for cell division and DNA synthesis. It is especially important during pregnancy for the development of the baby.
Vitamin A: Okra contains some vitamin A, which is important for vision, immune function, and skin health.
Vitamin E: Okra contains small amounts of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Vitamin B6: Okra is a source of vitamin B6, which is important for brain development and function, as well as for the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
What are the 10 proven health benefits of Lady Finger ?
Lady’s Finger, also known as okra or bhindi, offers several proven health benefits:
Rich in Nutrients: Lady’s Finger is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins (like vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate), and minerals (such as magnesium and potassium).
Improves Digestion: The fiber in Lady’s Finger promotes healthy digestion by aiding in regular bowel movements and reducing the risk of digestive issues like constipation.
Manages Blood Sugar Levels: Lady’s Finger may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a good vegetable choice for people with diabetes.
Supports Weight Loss: Due to its low calorie and high fiber content, Lady’s Finger can help you feel full for longer, potentially aiding in weight management.
Heart Health: The fiber, vitamins, and minerals in Lady’s Finger can contribute to heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Boosts Immune System: The vitamin C and other antioxidants in Lady’s Finger can help boost the immune system and protect against infections.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Lady’s Finger contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Improves Skin Health: The vitamin C in Lady’s Finger is essential for collagen production, which is important for maintaining healthy skin.
Supports Pregnancy: The folate in Lady’s Finger is important for pregnant women as it helps prevent neural tube defects in the baby.
Promotes Bone Health: The vitamin K in Lady’s Finger is essential for bone health as it helps in the absorption of calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones.
What are the side effects of Lady finger ?
Side effect of Lady finger are :
Gastrointestinal Issues: Some people may experience gas, bloating, or diarrhea when consuming large amounts of Ladies Finger, especially if it is undercooked.
Oxalates: Ladies Finger contains oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. People with a history of kidney stones may need to moderate their intake.
Blood Sugar Levels: Although Ladies Finger can help regulate blood sugar levels, people taking medication for diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely when consuming Ladies Finger to avoid hypoglycemia.
Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to Ladies Finger, resulting in symptoms such as itching, swelling, or hives. If you experience any allergic reactions, stop consuming Ladies Finger and seek medical attention.
Interaction with Medications: Ladies Finger may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners like warfarin. If you are taking medications, consult your healthcare provider before adding Ladies Finger to your diet.
Which country produces more Lady finger ?
India is the largest producer of Ladies Finger, accounting for a significant portion of the global production. Other countries that also produce substantial amounts of Ladies Finger include Nigeria, Sudan, and Pakistan.
