Imagine a steaming pot of okra stew, its rich green hues mingling with the golden glow of onions and the earthy specks of sage. The aroma of garlic and spices fills the air, creating an inviting warmth that wraps around you like a cozy blanket.
This dish speaks to my heart, a culinary hug that comforts me on chilly evenings or busy weeknights when time is scarce. I remember one particularly hectic day when the simple act of stirring this stew brought a moment of calm, the familiar scents and flavors grounding me in the present.
It’s a dish that effortlessly bridges the gap between simple and satisfying, perfect for Sunday suppers with loved ones or a solo dinner that feels like a treat.
Ready? Let’s cook up a pot of this heartwarming okra stew, where each spoonful is a little piece of comfort.
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with a unique fusion of applesauce and sage.
- Freezes beautifully for convenient future meals.
- Uses pantry staples like vegetable broth and olive oil.
- Satisfies with a hearty, plant-based main course.
- Quick prep time for a healthy, weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 500 g okra, trimmed and sliced — opt for fresh okra for better texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil — extra virgin for richer flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped — look for firm and glossy onions.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — fresh garlic enhances the dish.
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped — fresh sage adds more aroma.
- 1 cup vegetable broth — choose low-sodium for healthier stew.
- 1 cup applesauce — unsweetened for balanced taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt — adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper — freshly ground for best results.
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes — adds a mild heat.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice — freshly squeezed for acidity.
Step-by-Step Method
Heat the Olive Oil
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Confirm the oil is hot but not smoking before proceeding to the next step. This will help in sautéing the onions evenly and extracting the maximum flavor from them.
Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. The translucent onions provide a sweet, aromatic base for the stew.
Add Garlic and Sage
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sage. Cook for another 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. This step enhances the dish with earthy and pungent notes, enriching the overall flavor profile.
Cook the Okra
Add the sliced okra to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Stir occasionally but avoid over-stirring to prevent the okra from becoming too slimy. This step softens the okra and integrates it with the aromatic base.
Simmer with Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This adds depth and body to the stew, allowing the flavors to meld together. Confirm the broth covers the okra and other ingredients evenly.
Stir in Applesauce
Mix in the applesauce, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. The applesauce adds a subtle sweetness and complements the heat from the chili flakes. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
Cover and Simmer
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop and the okra to become tender. If you prefer a thicker consistency, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce the liquid.
Add Lemon Juice
Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The lemon juice adds a revitalizing acidity that balances the sweetness and heat in the stew. Taste and adjust salt or pepper according to your preference.
Rest and Serve
Remove the pot from heat and let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and enhances the overall taste. Serve the stew warm and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors.
Ingredient Swaps
- If fresh sage isn’t available, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage.
- For a vegan option, make certain the vegetable broth is plant-based, though most varieties are.
- To make it gluten-free, make sure the applesauce and vegetable broth are certified gluten-free.
- You can replace the olive oil with sunflower oil or another neutral oil if preferred.
- If okra isn’t available, zucchini or green beans can be used as alternatives, although the texture and flavor will differ.
You Must Know
- Trim and Slice Okra Properly: Make certain to trim the ends and slice the okra evenly to guarantee even cooking and to prevent excessive sliminess.
- Use Fresh Sage: Fresh sage provides a more vibrant and robust flavor compared to dried sage, enhancing the overall taste of the stew.
- Simmer to Thicken: If you prefer a thicker stew, allow it to simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to help reduce the liquid content.
- Avoid Over-Stirring: To prevent the okra from becoming too slimy, stir gently and only when necessary.
- Let Stew Rest 10 Minutes: Allow the stew to rest for 10 minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld, resulting in a richer taste.
Serving Tips
- Serve with crusty bread or rice to soak up the flavorful stew.
- Garnish with fresh chopped sage or a lemon wedge for added freshness.
- Pair with a light, crisp white wine or iced herbal tea.
- Present in a rustic bowl to emphasize the dish’s comforting nature.
- Add a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for a creamy contrast.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Okra Stew with Applesauce and Sage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
To make ahead, prepare the stew, cool completely, and then refrigerate or freeze as desired for convenient future meals.
Reheating
To gently reheat Okra Stew, use a microwave-safe dish for the microwave.
Use low heat on the stovetop.
Alternatively, use a covered dish in a preheated oven at 300°F until warmed through.
Cultural Significance of Okra
After savoring the comforting flavors of Okra Stew, let’s explore the rich tapestry of meaning behind this humble vegetable.
Okra, often cherished across continents, carries stories of resilience and cultural identity. Its journey from Africa to the Americas is a reflection of the enduring spirit of those who introduced it to new lands.
- Symbol of Heritage: Okra is a staple in many Southern US and African dishes, linking generations through shared culinary traditions.
- Nutritional Powerhouse: Beyond its cultural roots, okra offers essential nutrients and health benefits, strengthening communities.
- Culinary Versatility: It’s celebrated for its adaptability, featured in stews, soups, and fried dishes worldwide.
- Historical Importance: During times of scarcity, okra provided nourishment and comfort, embodying resilience.
This small vegetable holds big stories.
Final Thoughts
Give this delightful Okra Stew with Applesauce and Sage a try, and feel free to tweak it by adding your favorite spices or a splash of your preferred hot sauce for an extra kick! Enjoy exploring this fusion of flavors and make it your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Okra Instead of Fresh?
I’ve used frozen okra before, and it works well! Just thaw and pat it dry to reduce moisture. It might be a bit softer, but the flavors still shine. Your stew will be delicious, I promise!
Is There a Substitute for Applesauce?
I’ve found that mashed bananas or pureed pears work wonderfully as a substitute for applesauce. They lend a natural sweetness and smooth texture, enhancing the dish’s flavor while maintaining its delightful balance. Give it a try!
How Can I Make This Stew Spicier?
I’d add more chili flakes or toss in a diced jalapeño for extra heat. You could also try a dash of hot sauce. Adjusting these will definitely elevate the stew’s spiciness to your liking!
What Wine Pairs Well With This Dish?
I’d recommend a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Its bright acidity and citrus notes beautifully complement the stew’s earthy okra and applesauce sweetness. You’ll find it enhances the dish’s flavors while offering a revitalizing contrast. Cheers!
Can This Recipe Be Doubled for More Servings?
I can easily double the recipe to serve more. Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate everything. The flavors blend beautifully, and sharing this delicious dish with more people is a joy!
Okra Stew with Applesauce and Sage
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Measuring spoon
Ingredients
- 500 gram okra trimmed and sliced
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh sage chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and chopped sage, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Add sliced okra and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in applesauce, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
