Botswana Beef and Okra Stew
A comforting and savory stew made with tender beef and okra, simmered in a rich tomato-based broth with aromatic spices. This dish is a flavorful representation of Botswana's diverse culinary landscape.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 pound Beef top sirloin(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons Canola oil
- 1 Beef bouillon cube
- 1 Large white onion(chopped)
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 8-ounce cans Tomato sauce
- 1 cup Beef stock(plus more as needed)
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1.5 tablespoons Ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon Sugar(or to taste)
- 1 10-ounce package Frozen okra
- Salt(to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly cracked, or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Sprinkle the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat the canola oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the beef, beef bouillon cube, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is seared, about 5 minutes, then reduce heat to medium.
- 2
Continue to cook, stirring, until the beef is browned, about 3 more minutes. Remove the beef to a plate and set aside.
- 3
Stir the tomato sauce, beef stock, tomato paste, ground ginger, sugar, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 cup of water into the pot. Bring to a boil; season with additional salt if needed.
- 4
Return the browned beef to the pot and add the frozen okra. Stir to combine.
💡 Tip: Using frozen okra can help reduce sliminess. - 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the okra is tender, about 25 to 30 minutes. Add additional beef stock or water if the stew becomes too thick, as the okra will thicken it.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: The stew can be served with rice, pap (maize porridge), or crusty bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a less slimy okra, ensure it's cooked thoroughly at a higher heat initially, or use frozen okra.
- ✓Adjust the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- ✓If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper with the onions.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Substitute lamb for beef for a different flavor profile.
- Add other vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth.