Okra Stew

Okra Stew
Gambia
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 1 lb beef or chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-2 hot peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 2 cups okra, sliced
  • 1 cup tomato paste or chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup water or beef/chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked rice or couscous, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and chopped hot peppers, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.

Add Meat

Add the beef or chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides.

Add Okra and Tomatoes

Stir in the sliced okra and cook for 2 minutes.

Add the tomato paste or chopped tomatoes and stir well.

Add Spices and Liquid

Stir in the ground paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Pour in the water or beef/chicken broth and soy sauce (if using). Stir to combine.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the okra is cooked.

Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.

Enjoy your meal!