Simple and Delicious Okra Recipe

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Step 1: Prepare the Okra

  1. Trim and Slice:
    • Rinse the okra under cold water. Pat dry with a clean towel. Trim off the stem ends and slice the okra into 1/2-inch rounds.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat Oil:
    • In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook Onion:
    • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic:
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Okra

  1. Add Okra:
    • Add the sliced okra to the skillet. Stir well to coat the okra with the oil and onions.
  2. Season:
    • Sprinkle in the ground cumin, paprika, dried thyme (or oregano), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Add Tomato (Optional):
    • If using, add the diced tomato and stir.

Step 4: Simmer

  1. Add Liquid:
    • Pour in the water or vegetable broth. This helps to steam the okra and prevent it from becoming too slimy.
  2. Cook:
    • Cover the skillet and let the okra cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender but still slightly crisp. If you prefer your okra softer, you can cook it a bit longer.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

  1. Add Acidity (Optional):
    • For a touch of acidity, stir in the lemon juice or vinegar if desired.
  2. Garnish:
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if you like.
  3. Serve:
    • Serve the okra hot as a side dish or over rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Cooking Okra

  • Minimize Sliminess: To reduce the sliminess, avoid overcrowding the pan and cook over medium to medium-high heat. Adding a bit of acidity (like lemon juice or vinegar) at the end can also help.
  • Freshness Matters: Use fresh okra for the best texture and flavor. Frozen okra can be used but might have a slightly different texture.
  • Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other spices or herbs according to your taste. For example, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add some heat.

Conclusion

This Simple and Delicious Okra Recipe is a great way to enjoy okra’s unique texture and flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect as a side dish or part of a larger meal, it’s a healthy and satisfying option for any day of the week. Enjoy the natural taste of fresh okra in this easy, flavorful recipe!

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