Brazilian recipe
Brazilian Braised Okra (Ensopado de quiabo)
This classic Brazilian-style braised okra is a staple for a reason: it's quick, relies on fresh pantry flavours, and delivers a perfect, tender bite every time.
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Ingredients
200 g okra (about 20 pods)
1/2 red capsicum
1/2 red onion
1 clove garlic
1 can diced tomatoes (including liquid)
2/3 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 red capsicum
1/2 red onion
1 clove garlic
1 can diced tomatoes (including liquid)
2/3 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Where to find ingredients
Fresh okra and red capsicum can be found in the produce sections of major supermarkets or local community markets. Canned tomatoes, onions, garlic, and pantry spices like cumin are readily available in any local grocery store throughout the islands.
Preparation method
- Wash the okra pods thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen cloth
- Trim the stems and slice each okra diagonally into 1 cm rounds
- Set the prepared okra aside for later
- Finely dice the red onion and mince the garlic
- Cut the red capsicum in half, discard the seeds, and chop half of it into 1 cm cubes
- Briefly crush the cumin seeds using a mortar and pestle to release their fragrance
- Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over moderate heat
- Add the diced onion and capsicum to the pan
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and sauté for about 3 minutes, just until the vegetables begin to soften
- Add the minced garlic and crushed cumin to the pan
- Stir for 1 minute until the aromatics are fragrant
- Pour in the water and stir well to deglaze the base of the pan
- Fold in the canned tomatoes along with their juice
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper to your preference
- Bring the sauce to a steady simmer over medium heat
- Lower the heat and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens
- Gently fold the sliced okra into the simmering sauce
- Cook for another 6 minutes, stirring intermittently, until the okra is just tender
- Be careful not to overcook the okra so it retains its signature bite
- Serve immediately while warm
Observations
This savoury dish highlights the unique, silky texture of okra cooked in a deeply aromatic tomato-based sauce. It is an ideal, wholesome side that pairs beautifully with daily meals, adding a touch of authentic Brazilian home cooking to your table.
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