Southern-Style Okra Braised with Pepper – Delicious Recipe

Southern-style okra braised with pepper is a simple yet flavorful dish commonly found in Vietnamese family meals. The combination of the natural sweetness of okra, the spicy kick of pepper, and the savory taste of fish sauce creates a perfect rice companion. Let’s explore how to prepare this delicious dish at home.

1. Ingredients Needed

To make a delicious okra braised with pepper, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Okra: 300g (choose young, fresh green pods)
• Green onions: 2 stalks
• Fresh chili: 1-2 (depending on taste)
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Green peppercorns: 1 stalk
• Seasonings: Fish sauce, sugar, cooking oil, seasoning powder

Ingredients for okra braised with pepper

2. Steps to Follow

Preparing the Ingredients

• Okra: Wash thoroughly, remove the stems, and let dry. If the pods are large, you can cut them in half lengthwise.
• Green onions: Wash and finely chop.
• Fresh chili: Wash and thinly slice.
• Garlic: Peel and mince.
• Green peppercorns: Lightly crush.

How to Cook Okra Braised with Pepper

Step 1: Marinating the Okra

Mix the okra with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, ½ teaspoon of seasoning powder, crushed green peppercorns, minced garlic, and sliced chili. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Braising the Okra

• Sauté the garlic in 2 tablespoons of cooking oil until fragrant.
• Add the marinated okra and gently stir.
• Add ½ cup of water, adjust the seasoning to taste.
• Braise over low heat for 15-20 minutes until the okra is tender and the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top and turn off the heat.

Finished okra braised with pepper

3. Cooking Tips

According to culinary expert Tran Thi Mai:

“Choosing fresh young okra and braising over a low simmer are the most important secrets.”

Some helpful tips:

• Briefly blanch the okra before braising to enhance its color.
• Add chili powder or satay sauce to increase the spiciness.
• You can add pork belly or dried shrimp to enhance the flavor.

4. Vegan Variation

For those who follow a vegan diet, you can replace fish sauce with soy sauce. According to vegan culinary expert Le Van Hung:

“Adding straw mushrooms or fried tofu skin can make the vegan dish more flavorful.”

5. Conclusion

With the simple recipe above, you can confidently prepare Southern-style okra braised with pepper at home. This dish is not only easy to make but also very nutritious, perfect for any family meal. Try it out and share your results!

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6. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How to choose good okra?
A: Choose young pods that are fresh green and medium-sized.

Q: How long to braise the okra?
A: Braise over low heat for 15-20 minutes.

Q: Can I use black pepper instead of green peppercorns?
A: Yes, but green peppercorns are more flavorful.

Q: How long can it be stored?
A: It can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Q: What is the best side dish to eat with it?
A: It’s best with hot rice.