2 min read
Okra at a Farmer's Market

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

  • Low in calories and sodium.
  • Supports a strong immune system.
  • Rich in fiber to promote a healthy digestive system.

Whole and cut okra on a white background.How to Store

  • Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • May be stored in the freezer for 8 to 10 months.

How to Prepare

  • Wash and dry.
  • Remove and discard the stem.
  • Chop into rounds or enjoy whole.

How to Enjoy

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

Did You Know? Most cooks agree that okra about 4 to 5 inches long is considered the perfect size. 


Recipes 

Sautéed okra in a pan on the stove.Sautéed Okra

Ingredients

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

Directions

  • In a bowl, combine sliced okra and oil.
  • Coat a large fry pan with cooking spray. Heat to medium and add okra.
  • Cook until okra is browned, about 10 minutes, turning often with a wooden spoon or spatula.
  • Serve immediately. Top with hot sauce, relish, or minced garlic for added flavor (optional).

Roasted Okra

Ingredients

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

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  • Grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
  • Place okra on the baking sheet and season to taste with Italian herb seasoning mix.
  • Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Okra will get crispier the longer it cooks.

Stovetop Okra

Ingredients

  • 4 to 5 okra pods, whole 
  • Cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or another favorite seasoning

Directions

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

Learn More

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