Bamia, or Okra Stew, is a traditional Egyptian dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This stew features tender okra cooked in a rich tomato sauce, often with pieces of meat such as beef or lamb. It is typically served with rice or bread.
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 500 grams (about 1 lb) of beef or lamb, cut into cubes
- 500 grams (about 1 lb) of fresh or frozen okra
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (400 grams) of chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups of water or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice or bread
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preparing the Stew
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and golden brown. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Meat: Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and browned meat to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Add the Liquid: Pour in the water or beef broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
- Prepare the Okra: If using fresh okra, trim the ends and rinse well. If using frozen okra, thaw it before adding to the stew.
- Add the Okra: Add the okra to the pot, stirring gently to combine. Simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving the Bamia
- Prepare the Rice: Cook white rice according to your preference or package instructions.
- Serve the Stew: Ladle the bamia stew into bowls and serve hot, accompanied by cooked white rice or bread.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
Cultural Significance
Bamia is a cherished dish in Egyptian cuisine and is enjoyed by families across the country. Its rich, savory flavors and hearty ingredients make it a favorite for both everyday meals and special occasions. The use of okra, a key ingredient in this stew, reflects the importance of fresh, local produce in Egyptian cooking.
Each family may have its own variation of bamia, adding different spices or ingredients to suit their tastes. Regardless of the variations, the essence of this comforting stew remains the same, making it a beloved part of Egypt’s culinary heritage.
Bamia is a delicious and comforting dish that showcases the rich flavors of Egyptian cuisine. The combination of tender meat, flavorful okra, and aromatic spices creates a stew that is both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy making and savoring this traditional Egyptian recipe, and experience the warmth and hospitality of Egyptian culinary traditions.