Okra is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that is widely enjoyed around the world. In this article, I will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook okra using a variety of methods, so you can enjoy this tasty and healthy vegetable in all its forms.
1. How To Cook Okra on Stove
1.1. How To Boil Okra
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh okra
- 2 cups of water
- 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
Wash the okra thoroughly under running water and trim off the stem ends. Next, cut the okra pods into bite-sized pieces
Place the okra in a pot and add enough water to cover it completely.
Add vinegar or lemon juice
Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the okra for 10-15 minutes, or until it is tender and cooked through.
Drain the okra in a colander and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Serve the boiled okra as a side dish, or use it in recipes such as gumbo or stews.
Note: Okra can become slimy when boiled, but adding a bit of vinegar or lemon juice to the water can help reduce the sliminess.
1.2. How To Cook Fried Okra
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh okra or frozen
- 1/2 cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Wash the okra thoroughly under running water and trim off the stem ends. Next, cut the okra pods into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) slices. If using frozen okra, allow it to thaw completely and pat dry with a paper towel.
In a bowl, mix together equal parts of cornmeal and all-purpose flour. Then add the sliced okra to the bowl and toss to coat it evenly with the cornmeal mixture. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) of oil over medium-high heat until it is hot.
Add the coated okra to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the okra for 2-3 minutes, or until it is golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried okra to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve the fried okra hot as a side dish or snack.
1.3. How To Sautee Okra
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh okra
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
Instructions
Wash the okra thoroughly under running water and trim off the stem ends. Then cut the okra into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) pieces.
Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to soften and become translucent.
Add the chopped okra to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion.
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cover the skillet and cook the okra for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until it is tender and cooked through.
Remove the cover and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, or until any excess liquid has evaporated and the okra is lightly browned.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the sautéed okra cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. How To Cook Okra in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or frozen okra
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
Wash the okra thoroughly under running water and trim off the stem ends. Netx, cut the okra pods into bite-sized pieces.
Place the okra in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat the okra evenly with the oil. Then sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on top, and toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Spread the okra out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast the okra in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it is tender and lightly browned.
Remove the okra from the oven and serve immediately.
3. How To Cook Okra in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or frozen okra
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Wash the okra under running water and trim off the stem ends. Next, cut the okra pods into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) slices. If using frozen okra, allow it to thaw completely and pat dry with a paper towel.
Toss the okra with a small amount of olive oil to help it crisp up in the air fryer. Then season the okra with salt and black pepper to taste.
Place the okra in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure that there is space between each piece.
Cook the okra for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the okra halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
Check the okra for doneness and continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes if needed. Once the okra is crispy and lightly browned, remove it from the air fryer basket and serve immediately.
There are many delicious and healthy ways to cook okra, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to your diet. With the guides we’ve shared in this article, you’ll be able to cook okra to perfection every time, and enjoy its unique flavor and texture in a variety of dishes.
