Craving a spicy dish, I decided to make okra with sambal. Went to the Asian grocery, to buy okra and found black bean sauce on sale. Bought it to try what is the taste with sambal and okra.

“Okra is a fruit commonly eaten as a vegetable, known for its light green seed pods which can be easily cooked in various ways. Choosing the right cooking method can prevent it from becoming slimy. It is rich in essential nutrients like folate, vitamins C and K, magnesium, and fiber; its antioxidants can enhance the immune system. Low in calories and high in fiber, okra aids in weight management and supports heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels. Additionally, vitamin A in okra promotes skin health and reduces acne and blemishes.”

“Sambal is a popular chili-based condiment from Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia, made by blending hot chili peppers with garlic, ginger, shallots, palm sugar, lime juice, and shrimp paste. It serves as a dipping sauce, marinade, or cooking base, adding heat and umami flavour to dishes. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, chilies offer health benefits, while capsaicin boosts metabolism, aids in satiety, and has analgesic properties. Ginger and garlic also contribute immune-boosting benefits.”

“Black bean sauce is a savoury, umami-rich Chinese condiment made from fermented black soybeans, garlic, ginger, and spices, offering plant-based protein, gut health benefits, and essential minerals like manganese and phosphorus. It supports digestion, helps protect cells, builds strong bones, and enhances the flavour of plant-based meals.”

I am happy that I have spicy umami flavoured dish to eat. It’s easy to cook, healthy and delicious. Let’s cook!!!

Ingredients

18-20 okra or lady’s fingers
1 Tbs minced garlic
1 Tbs sugar (OPT)
2-3 Tbs sambal sauce
1 Tbs black bean sauce
some water, about 1/8 c
2 Tbs oil
salt

Method

Rinse and dry okra; trim off and discard the stem ends from the okra and cut diagonally into 1/4- to 1/2-inch slices. On medium heat, heat oil in a wok or skillet. Add garlic, and fry until fragrant. Next, add 2 Tbs sambal sauce, first. and fry, stirring, about 3 minutes.

Add salt, and sugar and cook until the sugar begins to caramelise, about 3-5 minutes. Add okra, and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the edges are lightly brown and the fruit slightly soft. Stir-frying will also substantially reduce the sliminess in the fruit.

Check for spiciness. I added another 1 Tbs sambal sauce, 1 Tbs black bean sauce, and toss about 1 minute. Lower heat in case sambal and black bean sauces starts to burn at the bottom. Finally add water. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve hot with rice and a side with your favourite meat dish. Enjoy!!!

https://helenscchin.com/2023/07/25/fried-okra-with-sambal-and-black-bean-sauce/

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