Selection and storage
Fresh, immature okra pods can be readily available in the stores year-round. The pods feature an attractively rich green color and have a neutral flavor. In the markets, look for crispy, immature pods.
Avoid those with over-mature, sunken, discolored, spots, cuts, and mushy.
Once at home, eat them while they are fresh to obtain the full benefits of vitamins and antioxidants. They may also stay well for 1-2 days when placed in the refrigerator.
Preparation and serving methods
Some hybrid varieties of okra may have been subjected to insecticide/pesticide sprays. Therefore, wash the pods thoroughly in
the cold water in order to remove dirt, soil, and any residual insecticides.
Trim the top stem end using a paring knife. Although not required, some may prefer trimming tip ends as well. Then, cut/slice the pod as desired in the cooking.
Here are some serving tips:
|
 |
| Pickled gumbo pods with baby corn, and beans. Photo courtesy: wharman |
Okra pod stir fry with onion, tomato, and green chilies. |
-
Okra pods are one of the widely used vegetables in tropical countries. Chopped, or sliced, they can be stewed or fried (fritters) under low heat oil to soften their mucilaginous texture. They then can be mixed with other vegetables, rice, or meat.
-
In the Caribbean islands, okra is cooked and enjoyed in soup, often with fish.
-
Fresh okra pods often feature in the “Louisiana state cuisine”, used as a thickener in seafood gumbos. This mucilaginous vegetable is usually cooked first, and other ingredients are added once the desired consistency is reached
-
The pods can be pickled and preserved like in other vegetables.
-
Tender okra leaves may be cooked in a similar manner as the greens of beets or dandelions. The leaves can also be eaten raw in salads.
-
Thick stew of lamb or beef and okra (bamiya) is a popular dish in Egypt and other Middle Eastern regions.
Safety profile
Insecticide sprays are sometimes applied over okra crops. Therefore, it is recommended to wash them in cold running water before use.
Okra is a safe and nutritious vegetable for most people and well-tolerated when consumed as part of a balanced diet. (Medical Disclaimer).
≻≻-Back to Vegetables from Okra. Visit here for an impressive list of vegetables with complete illustrations of their nutrition facts and health benefits.
≻≻-Back to Home page.
Further Resources:
-
Vegetable directory page- University of Illinois extension.
