South Indian-Style Okra Fritters

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound okra, finely chopped
• 1 green chile pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 tablespoon shortening
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 tablespoons rice flour, or as needed
• 1 tablespoon chickpea (garbanzo bean) flour, or as needed
• 2 cups vegetable oil for frying, or as needed