Okra – Recipe and Preparation – Syrian-Style Okra with Meat

Okra – Recipe and Preparation – Syrian-Style Okra with Meat

Okra is one of the most beloved traditional dishes in many parts of Syria. In fact, some women even dry okra to preserve it for use outside its summer season. Okra is known for its delicious taste and significant nutritional value. It comes in various sizes — small or large — with each size suited for different recipes.

Okra is packed with health benefits: it’s rich in vitamin A, which strengthens vision; vitamin B; and vitamin K, which is essential for bone health. It also contains important minerals like calcium, manganese, zinc, and beta-carotene, as well as folic acid, which is particularly beneficial for pregnant women. Okra promotes healthy skin by repairing damaged tissues and supporting collagen production, helping to maintain skin radiance. It’s also a weight-friendly vegetable — a small portion can promote a feeling of fullness — and helps prevent cancer, especially colon cancer, and can aid in reducing the risk of blood clots.

Ingredients for Syrian-Style Okra with Meat:

 

• 500 grams of small-sized okra

• 500 grams of diced beef

• 1 cup of beef broth

• 1 kilogram of chopped tomatoes

• About 75 grams of tomato paste

• 1 head of garlic (cloves peeled and chopped)

• 3 tablespoons of lemon juice

• About 1/3 cup of oil

• 1 teaspoon of mixed spices

• Salt to taste

• Black pepper to taste

Preparation Method:

In a wide pot over medium heat, pour the oil and add half of the okra. Sauté it, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. Make sure the okra forms a single layer for even cooking — using a wide pot is recommended.

Separately, fry the garlic with the remaining half of the okra (which should be well-dried using paper towels beforehand) until the okra takes on a light golden-brown color. Set it aside once done.

Season the mixture with salt and black pepper as needed.

Now, combine all the cooked okra, meat, and garlic in one large pot. Place it over very low heat and allow it to cook slowly for about three hours. After the first hour and a half, add the remaining ingredients (tomatoes, tomato paste, lemon juice, and broth) to the pot. Continue cooking gently until the meat and okra are fully tender and well-flavored.

Serve the dish hot for your family or guests. It’s highly recommended to pair Syrian okra with a side of vermicelli rice for the best experience.

Enjoy this wholesome, hearty dish with good health and happiness!