Okra: You either love it or you hate it. As a kid, I hated it, thanks to the traditional okra and tomato stew my mom used to make for dinner. Man, was that stuff slimy. I never reached for seconds when it came around the table. But then I was introduced to some recipes that actually tasted amazing.
Roasted okra, fried okra, okra fritters — I'm talking truly delicious okra recipes. Now, I count myself as a serious okra lover. Here are seven low- and no-slime ways I love to eat it. Check them out, then get ready to rediscover this classic southern summer veggie for yourself.
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Gumbo Pizza
Yes, you read that correctly. If you don't like your okra in traditional gumbo, perhaps this cajun-inspired pizza much less slimy version will suit your tastebuds. (I'll be making it this weekend.)
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Farmer's Market Fritters
If you're scared of the okra slime, try this summer fritter. Hiding the okra amid a cornucopia of other summer produce & frying it up to perfection is a sure-fire way to get your taste buds on board.
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Roasted Okra
This is my favorite, and it's so simple, you almost don't even need a recipe. Crank the oven up to 450 degrees, slice the okra lengthwise, and mix it with some salt and a tablespoon or so of extra virgin olive oil (just enough to coat). Then, put it in the oven on a cookie sheet and stir every 5-10 minutes, until you get the desired crispness you are hoping for (see photo at top). I know mine is ready when it turns brown and bubbly.
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Indian-Inspired Okra
This yummy blend of spices may help you discover your love for okra. This Indian okra dish is stuffed with a flavor and stir-fried to perfection.
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Grilled Okra
Watch out when you choose this method: Folks over at our Facebook page swear that none of the okra even comes back from the grill. I like this version with cayenne and lemon.
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Pickled Okra
No slime here! A tangy, refreshing side with a tomato sandwich, pickled okra is a great way to eat and preserve your okra harvest.
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Raw Okra
Stay with me on this one. I had never even heard of eating okra raw until I met my husband. When I saw him grab okra from the garden and start snacking, I did a double take. I've since discovered that the Pioneer Woman does it, too, so it must be delicious, right? (It's even better with a little ranch dressing on the side.)
What recipe convinced you to finally enjoy this summer veggie?
Join the conversation on Facebook and let us know!Article written by Amanda Davis.