Djiboutian Lamb and Okra Stew (Bamia)
A hearty and flavorful stew featuring tender lamb and okra simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish showcases the influence of Middle Eastern and North African cuisines on Djiboutian food, with aromatic spices and a comforting texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1.25 lbs Lamb shoulder(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 large Onion(thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic(grated)
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric
- 0.5 tsp Ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 large Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 tsp Cayenne pepper(chopped (optional))
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1 pound Okra(fresh, trimmed and halved lengthwise)
- 2 cups Water
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a thick-bottomed pot, heat 2.5 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until translucent. Add the grated garlic and sauté until lightly browned.
- 2
Add the lamb cubes and brown them on all sides. Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and black pepper. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 3
Add the chopped tomatoes, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and 2 cups of water. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the lamb is half-done.
- 4
While the lamb is simmering, prepare the okra. Toss the trimmed okra with the remaining 0.5 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes until lightly browned and tender-crisp.
- 5
Once the lamb is tender, add the roasted okra and lemon juice to the pot. Stir gently, cover, and simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 6
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, traditionally with steamed rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To reduce sliminess in okra, you can lightly flour it before roasting, or ensure it is thoroughly dried.
- ✓If fresh okra is unavailable, frozen okra can be used. Add it directly to the stew during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use lamb shoulder with some bone.
🔄 Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the lamb and increase the amount of vegetables, or add chickpeas or white beans.
- Spicier: Add more cayenne pepper or a fresh chili pepper with the tomatoes.