Easy and Delicious Okra Stir-Fry Recipe: Perfect for a Quick Side Dish
Okra is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that’s often overlooked. Whether you’re new to cooking okra or just looking for a simple way to enjoy it, this easy stir-fry recipe is perfect. It’s quick to prepare, flavorful, and can be served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh okra, trimmed and sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation Guide:
Step 1: Prep the Okra
Wash and dry the okra thoroughly, as excess water can make it slimy during cooking. Trim off the ends and slice into 1/2-inch pieces.
Step 2: Heat Oil and Sauté Spices
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant. Then add sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Okra and Spices
Add the sliced okra to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the onions. Sprinkle in turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook the okra for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and slightly crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once the okra is cooked through, remove from heat. Optionally, drizzle with fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
Time Breakdown:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Serves 4):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
Tips for Perfect Okra:
- Use Fresh Okra: Fresh, firm okra works best in stir-fries. Avoid frozen okra as it tends to become too slimy.
- Dry the Okra: Dry the okra completely after washing to reduce sliminess.
- Cook Over Medium-High Heat: This helps the okra stay crispy and avoids it becoming too soft.
Conclusion:
This easy okra stir-fry recipe is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s quick to prepare. It’s perfect as a side dish for lunch or dinner, or even as a main course when paired with rice or bread. Plus, the spices bring out the best in okra without overwhelming its natural taste.