Hen with Okra

Hen with Okra Recipe from Romania | Simple and Flavorful

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Hen with Okra is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender hen meat with the unique flavor of okra. This recipe is a popular choice for those looking for a comforting and satisfying meal.

History

Hen with Okra has been a traditional dish in many cultures for centuries. The combination of hen meat and okra is a classic pairing that has stood the test of time. This dish is often enjoyed as a family meal or served at special occasions.

Ingredients

1 hen
1 tbsp lard
1 lb / 500 g okra
5 – 6 tomatoes
1 onion
chopped parsley and dill
1 tbsp vinegar
0.5 tsp sugar
salt

How to prepare

Clean and wash the okra.
Soak the okra in a mixture of water, salt, and vinegar for one hour.
Fry the pieces of hen in butter until they turn yellow.
Include grated onion, boiled and strained tomatoes, salt, sugar, and the okra (which has been rinsed multiple times after being removed from the salt-vinegar water).
Simmer, covered, until the okra is almost cooked.
Add a tablespoon of vinegar and the chopped greens, then place it in the oven for a short period of time.

Variations

Add bell peppers or eggplant for additional vegetables.
Use chicken or turkey in place of hen for a lighter option.
Add spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the okra in a mixture of water, salt, and vinegar before cooking to reduce its sliminess.

- Fry the hen pieces in lard for added flavor and richness.

- Simmer the dish covered to ensure that the flavors meld together and the okra cooks evenly.

- Add a splash of vinegar at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hen with Okra with a side of rice or crusty bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the hen in lard adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

- Simmering the dish covered allows the flavors to develop and the okra to cook evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken broth in place of water for added flavor.

- Substitute olive oil for lard for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Hen with Okra in a large serving dish garnished with fresh dill or parsley. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a pop of freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Hen with Okra with a light and refreshing salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine or a cold beer complements the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 250

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Fats: 8g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies before serving.

Summary

Hen with Okra is a nutritious and well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Hen with Okra is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With a rich blend of flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who lived down the road. Mrs. Jenkins was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and that day was no exception.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of herbs and spices filled the air. Mrs. Jenkins was busy chopping vegetables and seasoning a large pot of bubbling broth on the stove. I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.

"Why, I'm making hen with okra, dear," she replied with a smile. "It's a family recipe passed down for generations."

I was intrigued. I had never tried hen with okra before, but the combination sounded divine. Mrs. Jenkins noticed my interest and offered to teach me how to make it.

"Would you like to learn the recipe, my dear?" she asked. "It's quite simple, but it does require a bit of patience and love."

I eagerly nodded, and Mrs. Jenkins began to guide me through the steps. She explained how to prepare the hen, how to slice the okra, and how to season the broth just right. As we cooked together, she shared stories of her grandmother teaching her the recipe when she was just a young girl.

"I remember watching my grandmother in the kitchen, just like you're watching me now," Mrs. Jenkins said with a nostalgic smile. "She was a master at combining flavors and creating delicious meals from scratch. I learned everything I know about cooking from her."

As the hen with okra simmered on the stove, the kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of spices and herbs. Mrs. Jenkins and I chatted about our families, our lives, and our shared love of cooking. By the time the dish was ready, I felt like I had known her for years.

We sat down at the table and Mrs. Jenkins served up steaming bowls of hen with okra. The tender meat, the savory okra, and the rich broth all blended together perfectly. I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a place of comfort and warmth.

"This is amazing, Mrs. Jenkins," I exclaimed between mouthfuls. "Thank you so much for teaching me how to make this dish."

Mrs. Jenkins smiled warmly and patted my hand. "It's my pleasure, dear. Cooking is a joy to me, and I'm always happy to share my recipes with others. Remember, the secret ingredient is always love."

From that day on, hen with okra became a staple in my own kitchen. Whenever I cooked the dish, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and the wonderful memories we had shared that day. I taught the recipe to my children, who now make it for their own families.

As the years passed, I continued to collect recipes from friends, relatives, and even strangers. Each dish told a story, a connection to the past and a link to the future. Cooking became more than just a hobby – it became a way to preserve traditions and create new memories.

And so, dear reader, I pass on this recipe for hen with okra to you. May you savor each bite and remember the love and joy that went into creating it. Happy cooking!