Okra or Ladies Fingers as it is called in some parts of the world due to its long and tubelike shape, is a favourite dish among us Sri Lankans. However, contrary to popular belief Okra is a fruit, though we tend to prepare and eat it more as a vegetable. Rich in magnesium, folate, fibre, antioxidants, and vitamin C, K1, and A, Okra is a source of nutrition that adds much health benefits to our lives. Believed to be native to Ethiopia, it grows best in hot and humid climates and as such Sri Lanka, of course, is an ideal location. The taste of Okra is unique and has a mild grass like flavour. It is known for its slimy texture and depending on the way its cooked, sliminess can be reduced leaving a crunchy or tantalizingly tender feel. We have embraced Okra as part of our own and has come up with a myriad of dishes that can be prepared—from curried to fried to sautéed and even grilled. Stir Fried Okra is one such loved dish that is crunchy to the bite!
Ingredients
- Okra 250g
- Salt Tablespoon 1/2
- Turmeric 06g
- Pepper Powder Tablespoon 1/2
- Coconut Oil Tablespoon 03
- Onion 01
- Green Chilies 04
- Curry Leaves
- Pandan Leaves
Method
- Wash the Okra well and put shallow cuts on the sides without slicing through.
- Add salt, turmeric, and pepper to the Okra and mix well. Set aside for five minutes to season.
- In a frying pan, put oil, sliced onions, chillies, pandan leaves and curry leaves and sauté well until the onions turn a slight golden brown.
- Then add the seasoned Okra and mix well
- Close the lid and cook for three minutes.
*Make sure the Okra are nice and green.