Sauté Okra With Garlic Chili Sauce

Although okra is a common ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, understanding and appreciating its unique flavor took some time. Growing up, sautéed okra was not a familiar dish in our household, but my mom ensured that our freezer was always filled with bags of fried okra.

Recently, my culinary journey has been enriched by the discovery of okra’s numerous health benefits and its vast potential in dishes, particularly sautéed okra. This newfound fascination led me to plant okra in my garden, the sight of its heart-shaped leaves bringing a sense of accomplishment and joy. This versatile vegetable, often called ‘ladies’ fingers,’ has found a permanent place in my kitchen.

While my go-to dish used to be my mom’s beloved okra, lamb, and tomato sauce recipe, my palate yearned for a creative experiment. This desire led to my unique sautéed okra recipe, a perfect blend of fiery garlic chili sauce that marries Middle Eastern and Asian flavors.

One aspect that makes this dish enjoyable is its versatility, allowing you to adjust the spice level to your preference. We were utterly captivated when my husband and I first tried this dish.

Sautéed Okra Ingredietns

• 1 lb Small Okra (tops cut, sliced): Fresh and mildly earthy, sliced for a satisfying texture.
• Medium-sized Onion (chopped): Sweet and aromatic, adding a flavorful base.
• Cumin, Salt, and Black Pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings for a well-balanced taste.
• Olive Oil: Infuses richness for a delightful sauté.

Garlic Chili Sauce:

• Cloves of Garlic (minced): Intense garlic aroma and flavor.
• Chimayo Red Pepper, Jalapeno Pepper (diced): Adds layers of heat with a hint of sweetness.
• Chopped Cilantro: Freshness that brightens the overall sauce.
• Red Chili Flakes, Cumin Seeds, and Coriander Seeds: A spice trio enhancing the sauce’s depth.
• Lemon Juice: Citrusy brightness that balances the heat.

Choosing and Preparing Okra

When creating a delightful sautéed okra dish, picking fresh, tender okra is essential. Look for vibrant green, small pods when shopping for okra, avoiding any with brown spots. Smaller pods often have thinner skin and smaller seeds, resulting in a more pleasing texture when sautéed.

If you find fresh okra in abundance, remember it freezes well. After thoroughly washing and drying the okra, place it in a freezer bag, ready to be whipped out when you fancy the dish.

Pairing Sautéed Okra

My Sautéed Okra with Garlic Chili Sauce is flavorful and versatile. It pairs well with many dishes. Usually, it’s served over fluffy rice, complementing the spicy sauce and okra’s unique texture.

This versatile sautéed okra dish can complement other grains like quinoa or couscous. It pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, offering a protein-packed option. Or consider this sautéed okra as a distinctive side dish at your next barbecue or family gathering, adding a pleasant heat that elevates the meal.

Storing and Freezing Okra

For a delicious sautéed okra all year, store and freeze it properly. Start with fresh okra pods, wash them, and trim the stems gently.

Use the Blanching Method: boil for 3-4 minutes, then ice-cool. Drain, dry, and freeze in a dated bag. Or, try the Quick-Freeze Method: wash, dry, trim, and freeze the pods on a baking sheet before bagging.

Properly stored okra lasts up to 12 months at 0°F or lower. Thaw in the fridge or under cool running water for best results. Enjoy your favorite Sautéed Okra anytime with these steps.