Welcome to Tasty Tidbits, your go-to guide for making the most out of the fresh, local produce that you find at Alabama farmers markets! Brought to you by Live Well Alabama, each edition highlights a delicious fruit or vegetable, providing nutrition facts, simple storage and cooking tips, and new recipe ideas. Get ready to explore fresh flavors, boost your meals with nutritious ingredients, and enjoy the best of what Alabama’s farms have to offer.

Nutrition Nuggets

• Okra is a low-calorie and low-sodium food.
• It supports a strong immune system and contains fiber for a healthy digestive system.

How to Store

• Store okra in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Store in the freezer for 8 to 10 months.

How to Prepare

• Wash and dry.
• Remove and discard the stem end and chop.
• Leave whole, if desired.

How to Enjoy

• Serve raw as a crunchy snack or add to soups, stews, or side dishes.
• Sauté, roast in the oven, pickle, boil, or steam.

Did You Know?

• Most cooks agree that okra about 4 to 5 inches long is considered the perfect size.

Recipes

Sautéed Okra

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups fresh okra, sliced
• 3/4 teaspoon oil
• Nonstick cooking spray as needed

DIRECTIONS

1. In a bowl, mix sliced okra and oil.

2. Coat a large fry pan with cooking spray.

3. Place over medium heat and add okra, turning often with a wooden spoon or spatula.

4. Cook until okra is browned, about 10 minutes.

Optional: Serve with hot sauce, your favorite relish, or minced garlic for flavor.

Roasted Okra

INGREDIENTS

• 12 okra pods, whole
• Olive oil
• Optional: Italian herb seasoning mix

DIRECTIONS

1. In a saucepan, bring a small amount of water to a boil.

2. Add the okra and cover the pan with a lid.

3. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes.

4. Drain off the liquid and sprinkle with any seasonings for added flavor.

Stovetop Okra

INGREDIENTS

• 4 to 5 okra pods, whole
• Optional: cayenne pepper, smoked paprika

DIRECTIONS

• In a saucepan, bring a small amount of water to a boil.
• Add the okra and cover the pan with a lid.
• Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes.
• Drain off the liquid and sprinkle with any seasonings for added flavor.

Learn More

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