Bamia is comfort that builds gently. Okra softens in a tomato-rich sauce, absorbing garlic, spices, and time. It’s a dish that rewards patience warm, nourishing, and deeply rooted in home cooking traditions across the Middle East and Mediterranean.
This is Let’s Veg cooking that simmers, settles, and satisfies.
Bamia (Okra Stew)
Bamia is a comforting okra stew simmered in a tomato-garlic sauce. A classic Let’s Veg recipe perfect for hearty, plant-forward meals.
Ingredients
Equipment
small soup pot
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in okra and sauté for 3-4 minutes to coat with oil.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, coriander, cumin, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes, until okra is tender and sauce thickened.
- Stir in lemon juice just before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
Nutrition
Notes
Avoid over-stirring to keep okra from breaking down
Lemon juice at the end brightens and reduces sliminess
Serve with rice, bulgur, or crusty bread