Egyptian okra ‏( بامية )

okra

🥗Healthier: green beans

💰Cheaper: zucchini

Green beans provide a similar texture and are often more affordable.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil offers healthier fats while canola oil is budget-friendly.

chicken or beef

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: lentils

Tofu is a plant-based protein, while lentils are economical and nutritious.

coriander

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Parsley can be a fresher, lower-cost alternative to coriander.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 8-10 minutes.

Season with coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.

Add okra and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring gently.

Pour in water and bring to a simmer.

Add bay leaves and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes until okra is tender.

If using, add chicken or beef and simmer until cooked through, about 15 minutes.

Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: