Okra, a vegetable often misunderstood or underutilized, is actually a culinary gem waiting to be discovered. With its unique texture and versatility, okra can be cooked in a variety of ways to suit any taste or occasion. From classic Southern dishes to international flavors, this ingredient has the potential to elevate your meals to new heights. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering okra recipes that showcase its incredible range and capabilities.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with okra in the kitchen. From comforting stews and soups to crispy fritters and roasted snacks, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 18 delicious okra recipes…
Southern Fried Okra
This classic Southern dish is a crispy and delicious side that pairs perfectly with your favorite comfort foods. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and addictive snack or accompaniment to your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound okra pods
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cut the okra pods into small pieces and rinse under cold water.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each okra piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the coated okra pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Okra and Tomato Stew
This Okra and Tomato Stew is a flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the natural bitterness of okra with the sweetness of tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound okra, chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the okra and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the okra is tender.
6. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Roasted Okra
Okra’s natural sweetness is amplified when roasted with a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. This simple recipe brings out the best in this Southern favorite, making it perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh okra pods
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse okra pods and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, toss okra with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until evenly coated.
4. Spread okra in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until okra is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Okra Gumbo
Okra Gumbo Recipe: A Delicious and Authentic Louisiana Staple
Okra gumbo is a classic Louisiana dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. This recipe combines the unique flavor of okra with traditional gumbo spices to create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound okra, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped okra and cook for 2-3 minutes or until it starts to brown.
5. Gradually stir in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let the gumbo cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Okra with Lemon Garlic Butter
A tangy and savory twist on traditional okra, this recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor to the classic Southern side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Brush the okra pods with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the okra for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the okra with the lemon-garlic butter mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pickled Okra
A classic Southern treat, pickled okra adds a tangy twist to the traditional green vegetable. This easy recipe is perfect for snacking, adding to salads, or using as a topping for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh okra pods
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon pickling spice blend
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cut the okra into 1-inch pieces and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, pickling spice blend, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pack the okra into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the okra, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooling time)
Okra and Corn Maque Choux
This classic Southern dish is a flavorful and nutritious side that combines the creamy sweetness of corn with the tender goodness of okra. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen okra, sliced
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or canned)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced okra and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in the corn kernels, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bhindi Masala (Indian Spiced Okra)
A flavorful and aromatic Indian dish that combines the tender okra with a rich blend of spices, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound okra, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add okra and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until okra is tender.
6. Stir in tomato puree and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Okra Fritters
Okra fritters are a Southern classic that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect snack or side dish. This recipe is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup okra, sliced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add sliced okra to the bowl and toss until coated with the flour mixture.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix with buttermilk.
4. Dip each floured okra slice into the egg mixture, coating completely.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the okra slices in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffed Okra with Ground Beef
Stuffed okra with ground beef is a delicious twist on traditional okra recipes. This Southern-inspired dish combines the tender crunch of fresh okra pods with the savory flavor of seasoned ground beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, trimmed
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Cut the okra pods in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Divide the ground beef mixture evenly among the okra pods, spooning it into the center of each pod.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the stuffed okra and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the okra is tender and the filling is heated through.
Okra and Shrimp Creole
Okra and Shrimp Creole Recipe
Summary: A classic Creole dish that combines the tender sweetness of okra with the succulent flavor of shrimp, all wrapped up in a rich and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup chopped okra
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet; set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the okra, Creole seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the okra is tender.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the okra mixture; cook for an additional minute.
7. Gradually stir in the chicken broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Bring to a simmer.
8. Return the shrimp to the skillet; stir to combine.
9. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Parmesan Okra Fries
Baked Parmesan Okra Fries: A Crispy and Savory Twist on Classic Fries!
These addictive Baked Parmesan Okra Fries are a game-changer for okra lovers. By breading and baking okra pods, you’ll get a crispy exterior giving way to a tender, slightly sweet interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound okra pods
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each okra pod into the flour mixture, coating evenly, then place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the okra pods, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy your Baked Parmesan Okra Fries!
Okra and Chickpea Curry
This Okra and Chickpea Curry recipe is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the unique texture of okra with the creamy richness of chickpeas. This curry is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried okra
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the okra and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and chop.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, okra, and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smothered Okra with Bacon
This recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, where crispy bacon and tender okra come together in perfect harmony. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen okra, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Add the vegetable oil, onion, and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the okra to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet, along with the paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let smothered okra cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has thickened and the okra is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Okra and Sausage Jambalaya
Okra and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe
A classic Louisiana dish that combines the simplicity of sausage and okra with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. This hearty jambalaya is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups okra, sliced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the okra and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the sausage to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Okra Stir-Fry with Garlic and Soy Sauce
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a flavorful and nutritious way to enjoy the humble okra. With its tender pods and slightly slimy texture, okra pairs perfectly with aromatic garlic and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen okra, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Optional: scallions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the okra and stir-fry until it starts to soften (about 2 minutes).
4. Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute, until the okra is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Okra and Potato Hash
Okra and Potato Hash Recipe
Discover a flavorful twist on traditional hash with the addition of okra’s unique texture and taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced okra and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to brown.
4. Add the diced potatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Okra Soup with Coconut Milk
This rich and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of African and Caribbean cuisine, combining the tender texture of okra with the creamy richness of coconut milk. Enjoy the soothing warmth and comfort this dish brings to your table!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen okra
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add okra, coconut milk, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until okra is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for a culinary adventure? Look no further! This article presents 18 mouth-watering okra recipes to suit every taste and occasion. From classic Southern Fried Okra to Indian-inspired Bhindi Masala, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Spicy Roasted Okra, Okra Gumbo, or Grilled Okra with Lemon Garlic Butter for a flavorful twist. For a lighter option, opt for Pickled Okra or Okra and Corn Maque Choux. Whatever your craving, these okra recipes are sure to delight.
