Okra, also known as lady's fingers, is a green vegetable that is popular in many cuisines around the world. Cooked okra from frozen has around 45 calories per 100g serving, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Not only is Okra low in calories, it is also high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. One serving of okra provides a significant amount of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. It also contains small amounts of calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value and health benefits of Okra, as well as some delicious Okra recipes and tips on how to choose and store Frozen okra.

What is okra?

Okra is a vegetable that is popular in African, Middle Eastern, and Southern (USA) cuisine. It is a member of the mallow family and is known for its green, slightly fuzzy pods that can range in size from 2-7 inches long. When cooked, okra has a slightly slimy texture that some people find off-putting. However, this sliminess can actually be beneficial in certain recipes, such as soups and stews, as it acts as a natural thickener. Okra can be eaten raw, pickled, or cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, boiling, or roasting.

Cooking frozen okra

Frozen Okra is an excellent ingredient to have on hand for quick and easy meals. To cook Frozen okra, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or on the countertop for a few hours. Once thawed, you can use it in a variety of recipes, such as stir-fries, gumbo, or roasted vegetables. To reduce the sliminess, you can cut the okra into small pieces and sauté it with acidic ingredients like tomatoes or vinegar. For a crispy texture, you can also coat the okra in cornmeal or breadcrumbs and fry it in oil until golden brown.

Nutritional value of okra

Okra is a highly nutritious vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber. One cup (100g) of Cooked okra provides the following nutrients: - Calories: 33 - Fiber: 3.2g / Protein: 2.0g / Vitamin C: 22% of the Daily Value / Vitamin K: 26% of the Daily Value / Folate: 15% of the Daily Value

Health benefits of okra

Eating Okra regularly can provide a range of health benefits, including: - Lowering cholesterol levels due to its high fiber content - Improving digestion and relieving constipation due to its high fiber and mucilage content (which helps to soften stool)

Okra recipes

Here are some delicious Okra recipes to try at home: - Okra and tomato stir-fry with garlic and ginger - Cajun-style okra and shrimp gumbo

How to choose and store frozen okra

When choosing frozen Okra, look for packages that are free from ice crystals and have a bright green color. To store Frozen okra, keep it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. It will keep up to 8 months in the freezer. Once thawed, use the okra within 2-3 days, and do not refreeze it.

Okra vs other vegetables

While Okra may not be the most popular vegetable, it does have some unique nutritional qualities that set it apart from other veggies. For example, okra is very high in vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting and bone health. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body. However, some people may not enjoy the texture of Cooked okra, or may find it difficult to work with due to its slimy nature.

Okra varieties

There are several different varieties of Okra, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common okra varieties include Clemson Spineless, which is a popular variety for home gardens, and Emerald, which is known for its large, tender pods. Other varieties of okra include Burgundy, which has a reddish-purple color and is often used for ornamental purposes, and Annie Oakley II, which is a dwarf variety that is well-suited for container gardens.

Culinary uses of okra

Okra is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. In Indian cuisine, okra is often used in curries and stews, while in the Southern United States, it is a key ingredient in gumbo. Okra can also be roasted, grilled, or sautéed as a simple side dish.

Fun facts about okra

- Okra is related to hibiscus and cotton and is sometimes grown for its ornamental flowers. - In some African countries, okra is used to make a traditional soup called gumbo. - Okra seeds are sometimes roasted and used as a coffee substitute.