Sauteed Okra Recipe
Okay, yes its okra. Okra is great in Cajun, African, Asian and Middle Eastern foods because it blends in so well with everything but yes, okra can have a very odd texture. If you have a preconceived notion that okra is not something you’d like or tried it and the okra was mushy, I ask that you rethink this healthy vegetable and give it a try.
I used to be a hater, but then got a very simple recipe from a friend of mine in Georgia. And okra has won me over. If you overcook the okra, it will have that slimy texture, but if you want to give okra a chance, try the recipe below.
Okra is considered part of the mallow family. Its pretty flowers are very similar to Hibiscus and Rose of Sharon. I grew a few plants last year. They are easy to grow as long as any groundhogs or other critters don’t get to them.
Okra is high in fiber and rich in vitamins. When you buy okra, my recommendations are to buy fresh, rather than frozen. Look for pods that are green and not too long. I would say about 3 inches long work well, no longer than that. If they are too much longer they become tough. Then older okra gets and the longer it sits, the tougher it will get. It can get stringy and the key to enjoying okra on its own is not having to cooking it too long so you won’t get that slimy texture! The larger an older okra would work fine in gumbos but not for eating on their own.
With the following recipe, you can slice the okra prior to dredging or leave it whole. My preference is to leave it whole. And lastly, one thing you can do, if you still are not sure about okra is just buy a few pods to give it a try. You might find that yourself running out to buy some more!
Sauteed Okra
Ingredients:
Directions:
1. Combine flour, salt and pepper in a large baggy. Set aside.
2. Wash okra and cut off any stems. While the okra is still slightly damp, place in baggy. Shake to lightly coat, then place in skillet with olive oil. Cook at medium heat until flour is browned – about 5 minutes or less. Remove okra from heat and serve.
Enjoy!!
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