There are lots of reasons to eat fruits and vegetables, but for me, the best reason is that it makes me happy. I feel energised just looking at intensely pigmented vegetables. When we eat colourful foods, we consume more micronutrients crucial for disease prevention and well-being.
Okra is one of my colourful superfoods. It’s known as ladyfingers, and it has been cultivated since the 12th century BC. Its origin is still unclear, but it’s believed that it could be native of Western Africa and Asia.
I’m so lucky to have a husband who instilled a love of this vegetable in me. Okra, called Bamyeh in Arabic, is enjoyed all over the Middle East.
In Lebanon, Okra is often stir-fried in olive oil and cooked until deliciously tender in a stew of onions, tomatoes, garlic and coriander, then served at room temperature with a side of pita bread- It’s my favourite way to eat this vegetable; it’s so yummy. You should at least try it one in your lifetime.
This veggie is one of the richest sources of potassium, folic acid, vitamins B and C, calcium, and fibre. It’s a powerful antioxidant known to be beneficial for reducing fatigue levels in the body, improving digestion, helping treat diabetes and boosting skin health. Okra contains lectin, a protein that fights and suppress cancer cells.
So, what are you waiting for? Start eating healthy and delicious OKRA 🙂
1 comment
My favorite