Balıkesir okra, grown in Balıkesir and its surroundings, is popularly known as chubby okra. Balıkesir okra is a type of okra that has more meat than other types of okra. Therefore, it goes very well with stews and casseroles. Okra is a vegetable that is both nutritious and highly recommended for stomach and intestinal health. Enjoy your meal!
If you are using fresh okra, cut it by turning the stem parts and remove them. The stem part should not be opened by cutting it deeply. (To prevent internal secretion from mixing with the water of the food)
Peel the onion and chop it into cubes. Peel and crush the garlic. Heat the oil over medium heat and fry the garlic and onions until they become transparent.
Add the cubed meat to the roasted onions and fry until the water is absorbed. Add the tomato paste and seasonings.
Add enough hot water to cover the meat by 2-3 fingers and close the lid. Cook over low heat until the meat becomes soft.
When the meat absorbs its water and becomes soft, add the okra and turn it upside down. Add 1 glass of hot water to the okra from the side without mixing it too much. Add lemon juice and cook under low heat for 10-15 minutes.
When the okra becomes soft, check the salt. Add 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper and 1 tablespoon of butter and remove your dish from the heat. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes with the lid closed and serve hot. Enjoy your meal!
Keep in mind: You can click on each ingredient to find other recipes that use that ingredient.
Okra:
Okra is a nutritious vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins K, C, and folate. Its mucilage and fiber content help regulate blood sugar levels and support digestive health. It's particularly known for promoting regular bowel movements and contributing to cholesterol management. Vitamin K supports bone health, while Vitamin C boosts the immune system. Okra pairs excellently with tomatoes, lemon, meat, and garlic, often featured in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Lamb Meat Cubes:
Diced lamb meat is a high-quality protein source, rich in iron, vitamin B12, and zinc. These essential minerals and vitamins are crucial for red blood cell formation, nervous system function, and a robust immune system. Commonly preferred in stews, sautés, and kebabs, lamb pairs exceptionally well with ingredients like potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, fresh thyme, and rosemary.
Dry Onion:
Dry onion is a kitchen staple and a powerful antioxidant source. Its quercetin content helps protect the body against free radicals, reduces inflammation, and may support heart health. Rich in Vitamins C and B6, and manganese, it strengthens the immune system. Its prebiotic fibers contribute to digestive health. It is widely used in dishes ranging from meat dishes to vegetable sautés, pilafs, and soups. It pairs perfectly with garlic, tomatoes, peppers, and red meat.
Liquid Oil:
Liquid oils (sunflower, olive, etc.) are essential kitchen ingredients that add flavor to dishes and contain healthy unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. Ideal for frying, salad dressings, baking, and sautéing. They pair perfectly with vegetables, meats, legumes, and grains. They offer easy cooking.
Garlic:
Garlic, thanks to its allicin compound, offers strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can boost the immune system, increasing resistance against illnesses. Furthermore, it contributes to cardiovascular health by helping regulate blood pressure and balance cholesterol levels. Widely used in traditional medicine, garlic is also known for its digestive support effects. An indispensable ingredient in meat dishes, vegetable sautés, and Mediterranean cuisine, it pairs wonderfully with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Tomato:
Tomato is a fruit rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and helps protect skin cells against UV damage. With Vitamin C, it boosts immunity, while potassium contributes to blood pressure regulation. Lycopene absorption is enhanced, especially when consumed with olive oil. It is an indispensable ingredient for basil, garlic, mozzarella, and various salad and pasta dishes.
Pepper Paste:
Red Pepper Paste is a flavorful concentrate made from ripe red peppers. Its high Vitamin C content supports the immune system, while its antioxidant properties (carotenoids) protect cell health. The capsaicin it contains may boost metabolism. It is commonly used to add a unique aroma, especially in bulgur pilaf, meat dishes, and breakfast sauces.
Tomato Paste:
Tomato Paste is a concentrated source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant whose bioavailability increases when heated. This property supports heart health and may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer. It also contains Vitamin K and potassium. Its absorption is enhanced when consumed with olive oil. It pairs perfectly with onions, garlic, red meat, and legumes, adding depth and umami to dishes.
Salt:
Salt is an essential mineral that adds unique flavor to dishes and serves as a natural preservative. It provides vital electrolyte balance for the body's water regulation, nerve, and muscle functions. It pairs perfectly with spices, herbs, and oils, enriching the taste of every meal. An indispensable part of every table.
Black Pepper:
Black pepper, a kitchen staple, offers not just flavor but also significant health benefits. Thanks to piperine, its active compound, it boasts powerful antioxidant properties, helping to combat free radicals. It can stimulate the digestive system, enhancing nutrient absorption and notably increasing the bioavailability of curcumin found in turmeric. Additionally, it's effective in reducing gas and bloating. It also has a mild metabolism-boosting effect. With a wide range of uses from red meats to poultry, vegetable dishes to soups, it pairs excellently. It harmonizes perfectly with spices like cumin and coriander, as well as ingredients like lemon and garlic, adding depth to dishes.
Cumin:
Cumin is a powerful spice that supports digestion, reduces bloating, and stimulates digestive enzymes. Rich in iron, it possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It pairs excellently with legumes (lentils, chickpeas), red and white meats, vegetables, and yogurt-based sauces. Combined with coriander, turmeric, and chili, it creates deep flavors in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Lemon Juice:
Lemon juice, rich in Vitamin C, boosts immunity and supports collagen synthesis for skin health. Its citrate content may help prevent kidney stone formation. A natural antioxidant, it reduces inflammation. It aids digestion by stimulating liver bile production. Added to water, it offers a detoxifying effect. Pairs perfectly with fish, chicken, salads, soups, marinades, and desserts, adding a refreshing and flavorful touch.
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