Okra and Rice

Okra and Rice Recipe from The Bahamas | Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Bahamas, The Bahamas | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Okra and rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the unique flavor and texture of okra with fluffy rice. This recipe is a popular choice for those looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

History

Okra and rice is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations in many cultures around the world. The combination of okra and rice is believed to have originated in West Africa and has since spread to other regions, where it has been adapted to suit local tastes and ingredients.

Ingredients

1 to 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
8 to 12 fresh okra, cut into small pieces
1 cup of rice
1 tbsp of tomato paste
1 tsp of thyme
salt to taste
2 cups of water

How to prepare

In a saucepan, sauté okra in hot oil, stirring until slightly softened.
Add tomato paste, thyme, and salt to the saucepan. Cook and stir for about a minute.
Blend in rice and water to the saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil.
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cover the saucepan. Let it cook over low heat for 14 minutes.
Turn off the heat, but do not remove the lid. Allow the rice to steam for an additional 10 minutes.
Do not stir the rice; keep the lid on until serving.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Stir in cooked beans or lentils for added protein and fiber.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the okra into small pieces to ensure even cooking and a nice texture in the final dish.

- Sautéing the okra before adding the rice helps to enhance its flavor and reduce any sliminess.

- Be sure to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom and burning.

- Let the rice steam after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to become fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

Okra and rice can be served on its own as a satisfying meal, or paired with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced dinner. It can also be served alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter option.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the okra before adding the rice helps to enhance its flavor and reduce any sliminess.

- Boiling the rice with the okra and seasonings allows the flavors to meld together for a delicious final dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute quinoa or couscous for the rice for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Okra and rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve okra and rice in a colorful bowl or on a decorative plate for an eye-catching presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Okra and rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian options. It also goes well with a side of yogurt or a dollop of hummus for added creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of okra and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of okra and rice contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. This dish is a relatively low-calorie option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Okra and rice is a good source of carbohydrates, with the rice providing the majority of the carbs in this dish. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help to fuel your day.

Fats

The vegetable oil used in this recipe provides a small amount of healthy fats, which are essential for overall health. Fats help to absorb vitamins, provide energy, and support cell growth.

Proteins

While okra and rice is not a high-protein dish, the combination of rice and okra does provide a small amount of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Okra is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and magnesium. These vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in supporting overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies or dietary restrictions before preparing this dish.

Summary

Okra and rice is a nutritious and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side dish.

Summary

Okra and rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is a healthy and satisfying option for any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Okra and Rice. It was a hot summer day, and my neighbor Mrs. Jenkins had invited me over for lunch. As I sat at her kitchen table, she placed a steaming plate of Okra and Rice in front of me. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water.

I had never tried Okra and Rice before, but after that first bite, I was hooked. The tender okra, the flavorful spices, and the fluffy rice all came together in a perfect harmony of flavors. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Mrs. Jenkins was more than happy to share her recipe with me. She explained that she had learned to make Okra and Rice from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was grateful for her generosity, and I set out to master the recipe myself.

I started by gathering all the necessary ingredients: fresh okra, long-grain rice, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of spices including cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. I chopped the vegetables with care, taking my time to ensure that each piece was uniform in size.

Next, I heated some oil in a large skillet and sautéed the onions and garlic until they were soft and fragrant. Then I added the okra, allowing it to cook until it was tender but still slightly crisp. I sprinkled in the spices, stirring everything together to coat the vegetables evenly.

Once the okra was well seasoned, I added the tomatoes and let everything simmer together for a few more minutes. Finally, I stirred in the cooked rice, allowing it to absorb all the flavors of the dish.

As I took my first bite of the Okra and Rice that I had prepared myself, I was transported back to that summer day at Mrs. Jenkins' house. The taste was just as delicious as I remembered, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had learned to make this dish from scratch.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my recipe for Okra and Rice. I have added my own touches here and there, experimenting with different spices and techniques to make it truly my own. But no matter how much I tweak the recipe, the essence of it remains the same: a comforting and flavorful dish that brings back memories of warm summer days and shared meals with loved ones.

I am grateful to Mrs. Jenkins for introducing me to this recipe and for inspiring me to explore the world of cooking. I have since shared my version of Okra and Rice with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this beloved dish to the next generation.

As I sit down to enjoy a heaping plate of Okra and Rice, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this moment. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and learning to make this dish has only deepened my love for the culinary arts.

So here's to Okra and Rice, a recipe that will forever hold a special place in my heart and on my dinner table. And here's to the countless memories and stories that have been shared over a steaming plate of this delicious dish. Cheers to good food, good company, and the joy of cooking.