- Prep Time: 10 min.
- Cook Time: 45 min.
- Yield: 4 side servings or 2 meals
This is a very simple, one-pot Mediterranean dish that serves well as an accompaniment to grilled chicken or kebabs, or as a satisfying vegetarian or vegan meal.
Contents
If you prefer a quicker alternative to chopping and straining the tomatoes, substitute 1 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes. I do this often. Also, don’t skimp on the olive oil; it’s not just for facilitating the frying of the onions and garlic.
The oil is vital to the flavor and texture of the dish. Lastly, select tender okra with soft, pliable pods and ribs that are not prominent or dark. Once rinsed, the okra must be cooked soon thereafter, or it will begin turning dark and bitter.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, smashed and chopped
- 6 medium vine-ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and coarsely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 pound of okra
- sea salt and black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- juice of one large lemon
Instructions
- Over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil in a medium-sized pot. When the oil is hot but not smoking, add the chopped onion, sprinkle with salt, and stir occasionally until the onions are soft and transparent (about 4-5 minutes).
- While the onions are cooking, rinse the okra pods, trim down the tops by about half, and slice them in half from the crown to the tip.
- Salt the okra halves very lightly and set them aside.
- Once the onion pieces are soft and transparent, add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, water, and oregano, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste. Add the okra, stir to coat with the tomato sauce, cover, and cook for 30 minutes. Remove the cooking vessel from the heat element, stir in the lemon juice, and serve.
- Serve over rice or as an accompaniment to any Mediterranean meal. As far as beverage complements, a bright Pilsner or Lager beer would be best. Enjoy!
