Armenian Vegetarian Okra Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Okra, a beloved vegetable in many cuisines, shines brightly in Armenian cooking, especially in vegetarian dishes. This Armenian vegetarian okra recipe is a heartwarming blend of tender okra simmered with fresh tomatoes, aromatic onions, and fragrant herbs.

The dish is simple yet rich in flavor, embodying the essence of rustic Armenian home cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to explore new vegetable dishes, this recipe offers a delightful and nutritious experience.

What makes Armenian okra special is its balance of textures and the subtle tang that fresh tomatoes bring to the table. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish alongside your favorite bread or rice.

If you want to explore more Armenian or vegetarian delights, be sure to check out our Kosher Vegetarian Recipes and Half Runner Beans Recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Armenian vegetarian okra recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together in a comforting dish. Okra is naturally low in calories and high in fiber, making it a fantastic choice for those who want to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

The slow simmering allows the okra to absorb the rich tomato and herb base, creating a satisfying depth of flavor. The recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians alike.

Additionally, it’s easy to prepare with everyday ingredients, requiring no exotic spices or hard-to-find products.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 500 grams fresh okra, washed and trimmed
• 3 medium ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried mint (optional but traditional)
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large sauté pan or deep skillet with lid
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Bowl for washing okra

Instructions

1. Prepare the okra: Wash the okra thoroughly and trim the stems without cutting into the pod to prevent slime formation.
2. Sauté onions and garlic: Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, sweet paprika, dried mint, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down into a thick sauce.
4. Combine okra with tomato base: Add the prepared okra to the skillet, gently stirring to coat the okra with the tomato mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add liquid and simmer: Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Finish with lemon juice: Once the okra is tender but not mushy, remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“To reduce the sliminess of okra, avoid cutting into the pods and cook them over low heat with acidic ingredients like tomatoes or lemon juice.”

• For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of pomegranate molasses for a sweet-tart note.
• Make it heartier: Stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
• Herb swaps: If you don’t have dried mint, fresh dill or basil can complement the flavors beautifully.
• Serve it cold: This dish is delicious as a cold salad, perfect for summer luncheons.
• Try different oils: For a richer taste, use walnut oil or avocado oil instead of olive oil.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Armenian vegetarian okra pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or traditional Armenian bulgur pilaf for a satisfying meal.

For a rustic touch, offer some fresh bread on the side to soak up the savory tomato sauce.

It also complements lighter fare such as a crisp cucumber and yogurt salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re in the mood for a hearty combination, try it with our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe for a complete vegetarian sandwich experience.

Conclusion

This Armenian vegetarian okra recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their repertoire without sacrificing taste or authenticity.

The tender okra melded with tangy tomatoes and fragrant herbs offers a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or exploring Armenian cuisine for the first time, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site, such as the comforting Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the sweet treat of the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Happy cooking!

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