OKRA FACTS + TIPS
OKRA IS BEST when harvested young so the pods are small and tender. Raw, it’s an excellent addition to veggie trays.
OKRA SEEDS were once dried, toasted, and ground to be used as a coffee substitute in times when coffee beans were scarce. The seeds are now pressed to make beauty and cooking oils.
BECAUSE IT’S AN ANCIENT CROP, many cultures have a different name for okra. Some believe the word originated from Nigerian Igbo, while others cite its origin in Swahili. Okra was first introduced to America by enslaved Africans. Enslaved people from Angola called okra “ki ngombo,” which became “gumbo” and is still used in reference to Louisiana-style stews.
Sautéed Okra and Pickled Red Onion
Pickled onions do double duty, adding bright pops of color and
