If you're looking for a tasty and healthy snack, you might want to try pickled okra. Two pieces of pickled okra that weigh one ounce have only 5 calories. Pickled okra is a popular Southern snack that is often served with drinks or used as a garnish. It has a distinct, tangy flavor that comes from the pickling process in which the okra is soaked in vinegar and spices.

Pickled okra is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great snack option if you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.

In this article, we'll dive deeper into what pickled okra is, its nutritional benefits, potential side effects, how to make it at home, and more.

What Is Pickled Okra and How Is It Made?

Pickled okra is a preserved vegetable that is made by immersing fresh okra in a solution of vinegar, salt, and spices. The vinegar helps to create a tangy, sour flavor, while the salt helps to preserve the okra. Different spices can be added to the pickling solution to enhance the flavor of the okra. Some common spices include garlic, dill, and red pepper flakes. The process of making pickled okra involves boiling the vinegar, salt, and spices in a pot until they have dissolved. The fresh okra is then added to the pot and boiled for a few minutes. Finally, the okra is packed into sterilized jars and covered with the pickling solution. The jars are then left to cool, and the okra is ready to eat.

Why Is Pickled Okra a Healthy Choice?

Pickled okra is a healthy snack choice because it is low in calories and high in fiber. Two pieces of pickled okra that weigh one ounce contains only 5 calories and less than 1 gram of sugar. Okra is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and calcium. The high fiber content of okra helps to promote digestive health and can help to lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, the pickling process adds a small amount of probiotics to the okra which can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.

How Can Pickled Okra Be Used in Recipes?

Pickled okra can be used in many different recipes. It is a popular addition to salads, sandwiches, and wraps. It can also be chopped up and used in dips or as a topping for pizza. One tasty option is to use pickled okra as a garnish for a Bloody Mary or other cocktail. Because of its tangy flavor, pickled okra pairs well with savory foods like grilled meats and cheeses.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Pickled Okra?

Pickled okra is low in calories and high in fiber. Two pieces of pickled okra that weigh one ounce contains only 5 calories and less than 1 gram of sugar. Okra is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and calcium. The high fiber content of okra helps to promote digestive health and can help to lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, the pickling process adds a small amount of probiotics to the okra which can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Pickled Okra?

Pickled okra is generally considered safe to eat in moderation. However, some people may experience digestive issues like bloating or gas if they eat too much. Additionally, pickled foods are high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure if eaten in excess. If you are sensitive to salt, or have other health concerns, it's best to speak with a doctor or nutritionist before adding pickled okra to your diet.

How Can Pickled Okra Be Stored?

Pickled okra should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Once opened, it will last for several months in the fridge if kept in an airtight container. If you want to store pickled okra for longer, it can be frozen. Simply pack the okra into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headroom for expansion, and freeze for up to 6 months.

What Type of Okra Is Best for Pickling?

When selecting okra for pickling, it's best to choose small to medium-sized pods that are fresh and tender. Avoid okra that is too mature, as it may be tough and stringy. Some popular varieties of okra for pickling include Clemson Spineless, Emerald, and Annie Oakley.

How Do You Make Pickled Okra at Home?

To make pickled okra at home, you will need fresh okra pods, white vinegar, salt, garlic, dill, and red pepper flakes. You will also need sterilized jars and lids for canning. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

1. Wash the okra pods and trim the stems to fit into the jars.
2. In a large pot, bring 3 cups of white vinegar, 3 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of salt, 2 cloves of garlic, 2 sprigs of dill, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pack the okra pods into sterilized jars and cover with the pickling solution.
5. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth and place the lids on top. Seal tightly.
6. Place the jars in a large pot filled with enough water to cover the jars by 1 inch. Bring to a boil and process for 10 minutes.
7. Remove the jars from the pot and let cool. Check the seals to make sure they are tight.

What Are Some Tasty Ways to Enjoy Pickled Okra?

There are many delicious ways to enjoy pickled okra. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add pickled okra to a charcuterie board with meats, cheeses, and crackers.
• Chop pickled okra and use it as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.
• Add pickled okra to a vegetable stir-fry for extra flavor and texture.
• Use pickled okra as a garnish for a Bloody Mary or other cocktail.

Where Can You Buy Pickled Okra?

Pickled okra can be found at most grocery stores, particularly in the Southern U.S. You can also purchase pickled okra online through specialty retailers like Amazon or at farmers markets. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own pickled okra at home by following a simple recipe.