Okra

Okra, also known as lady's fingers, is a unique and versatile green vegetable pod prized for its slightly grassy flavor and subtly sweet taste. Fresh okra boasts a crisp texture when raw, becoming more tender and yielding when cooked. Its distinctive ridged exterior and mucilaginous interior make it ideal for thickening soups and stews. Garden-fresh okra pods typically range from 2 to 6 inches long and exhibit a vibrant green color, adding both visual appeal and nutritional value to a variety of dishes. Looking for recipes with okra? Explore delicious ways to cook fresh okra and unlock its potential in southern cuisine, stews, and more.

Vegetable Produce Pod Vegetable

Common Uses

Okra is a popular thickening agent for gumbos and stews. The natural mucilage in okra creates a rich and hearty texture, making it ideal for authentic Louisiana gumbo recipes and slow-cooked southern stews. Learn how to prepare okra properly to minimize sliminess and enhance its thickening properties.
Fried okra is a classic Southern side dish. Battered and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy, fried okra offers a satisfying crunch and mild flavor. Discover tips for achieving the perfect crispy fried okra, including seasoning options and dipping sauce suggestions.
Grilled or roasted okra provides a smoky and charred flavor. Toss fresh okra pods with olive oil and seasonings, then grill or roast until tender-crisp. This cooking method brings out the natural sweetness of okra and minimizes its sliminess. Explore different seasoning blends for grilled and roasted okra.
Pickled okra is a tangy and flavorful condiment. Preserve fresh okra pods in a vinegar brine with spices to create a crunchy and zesty pickled okra. Enjoy pickled okra as a snack, a topping for salads, or a garnish for cocktails. Find easy pickled okra recipes with variations on spice levels and flavors.
Okra can be added to vegetable stir-fries for added texture and nutrients. Its unique texture and mild flavor pair well with other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Discover tips for incorporating okra into stir-fries for a healthy and delicious meal.
Braised okra with tomatoes and onions is a simple and flavorful vegetarian dish. Simmer okra with diced tomatoes, onions, and spices until tender and flavorful. This comforting dish is perfect as a side dish or a light meal. Find simple braised okra recipes with variations for seasoning and spice levels.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

33.0kcal (1.65%)

Protein

1.9g (3.8%)

Carbs

7.5g (2.73%)

Sugars

1.5g (3%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

Good source of fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
Rich in vitamins C and K, supporting immune function and blood clotting.
Contains antioxidants that help protect against cellular damage and inflammation.
May help regulate blood sugar levels due to its soluble fiber content.
Low in calories, making it a healthy addition to weight management diets.
Provides folate, important for cell growth and development, especially during pregnancy.

Substitutes

Zucchini

Storage Tips

Okra is best stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Place unwashed okra pods in a perforated plastic bag or wrap them loosely in a paper towel and store them in the crisper drawer. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can cause spoilage. Use okra within a few days of purchase for optimal quality. Avoid storing okra at room temperature for extended periods. For longer storage, okra can be frozen. Wash and trim the pods, then blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before freezing in airtight containers or freezer bags.