What can I do to reduce the slime in okra?

Soaking okra in lemon water before cooking and limiting the amount you stir it during cooking can help reduce its natural sliminess.

Can I use frozen okra?

Yes, you can use frozen okra if fresh is not available. There's no need to thaw it. If possible, use frozen baby okra. Simply add it to your recipe as instructed, and it will cook and soften during the cooking process. It might take just a little longer.

Can I make Bamya in advance?

Yes, it can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Can I make Bamya in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, it can be adapted to be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, and remember not to stir the okra too much.

What does Bamya taste like?

It has a unique, rich flavor profile. The okra offers a mild taste that is slightly sweet, almost grassy flavor, while the tomatoes, onions, and garlic add a savory depth. The lemon contributes a tangy brightness that balances out the dish. The okra can also have a unique texture, slightly firm on the outside but soft and almost creamy on the inside, particularly if cooked well in the stew.

What are the health benefits of okra?

Okra is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It's high in vitamins C and K, and provides good amounts of folate and magnesium. The high fiber content aids digestion and can help with weight management. Additionally, okra contains antioxidants that protect your body against harmful free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Bamya Recipe - Give Recipe

Bamya Recipe

Okra stew served with rice in a blue bowl with a spoon inside it.

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Bamya is a delicious, hearty okra stew, rich with flavors of tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a tangy hint of lemon. Simple to prepare and packed with nutrients, it's a staple in various Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. This recipe will guide you through making a traditional, vegetarian version of the dish. Pair it with rice for a satisfying, wholesome meal.

Author: Zerrin & Yusuf
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 1x
Category: Vegetarian
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Turkish
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 pound / 450 grams okra (whole, fresh or frozen)
1 onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
5 medium sized tomatoes, peeled and diced (or 1 cup crushed tomatoes)
4 cloves garlic, sliced
1 lemon (half for soaking okra, half for cooking)
1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Okra Prep: First, clean and rinse the okra pods. Next, douse them with lemon juice and let them sit for roughly 10 minutes. Be careful when handling the okra during this process to keep the pods intact. The lemon bath helps minimize the okra's slime factor.
Onion Sauté: While the okra is marinating in lemon, warm some olive oil in a large saucepan or pot. Add the onions and sauté until they achieve a golden hue.
Incorporating Tomatoes and Garlic: Once the onions have turned golden, it's time to toss in the tomatoes and garlic slices. Mix everything well and cook for around 5 minutes. This will allow the tastes to blend and the tomatoes to soften slightly.
Okra Addition: Next, introduce the okra to the pan, including the residual lemon juice. Quickly give the okra a fresh lemon squeeze, then leave it alone. Cover it without stirring and let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
Water and Salt Introduction: After the okra's 5-minute simmer, add 2 cups of hot water and sprinkle in salt according to your preference. Seal the pot once more and let it cook until the okra becomes soft, about 20 minutes.
Serving Time: Your Bamya is now ready to be savored. Serve it warm with a side of rice and additional lemon wedges for a burst of citrus.

Notes

Okra Selection: For optimum taste and texture, opt for young, fresh okra pods. Look for ones that are bright green and give a firm feel when pressed.
To Make It Slime Free: Soak the okra in lemon water prior to cooking, and minimize stirring when it's added to the stew. After adding it in the pot, give a couple of gentle stirs, and let it cook without further disturbance.
Tomato Preference: If available, use fresh, ripe tomatoes as they impart the best flavor. When fresh ones are not available, canned tomatoes serve as a decent alternative.
Spices: If you are a fan of spicy food, think about including chili flakes or pepper for a heat kick. For a richer flavor, you can add bay leaves, cumin and turmeric too.
Cooking Slowly: Use medium-low heat for a slow cook that allows flavors to meld and okra to tenderize.
Serving Suggestions: Bamya is most delightful when served warm, right off the stove. Pair it with rice. Don't stress over leftovers, as it reheats well.
Recipe Experiment: Feel free to get creative with the recipe. Additions like meat, varied spices, or legumes can help personalize the stew to your liking.

Nutrition

Serving Size:
Calories: 500
Sugar: 19.4 g
Sodium: 2379.4 mg
Fat: 29.8 g
Carbohydrates: 59.2 g
Protein: 13.3 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Find it online: https://www.giverecipe.com/okra-with-tomatoes/