Craving a spicy dish, I decided to make okra with sambal or chili garlic and onion sauce. Discovered I have finished my chili garlic and onion sauce. Went to the Asian grocery, to buy okra. Glad to find okra and sambal sauce on sale. Bought it to try for myself if it’s spicy.

“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.”

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

Ingredients

20-25 okra or lady’s fingers
1 Tbs minced garlic
1 Tbs sugar (OPT)
2-3 Tbs sambal sauce
1 Tbs light soy sauce
1/8 c water
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 light soy sauce, and toss about 1 minute. Lower heat in case sambal 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/2022/04/04/fried-okra-with-sambal/

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