Macedonian Baked Okra with Tomatoes (Bakrdan so Domati)
A simple yet flavorful vegetarian dish where tender okra pods are baked with ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs, creating a comforting and healthy side or main course.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Fresh okra(trimmed and halved lengthwise)
- 400 g Ripe tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 100 ml Water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- 0.25 tsp Optional: Red pepper flakes
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
💡 Tip: Ensure the oven is at the correct temperature before placing the dish inside. - 2
In a large bowl, combine the trimmed okra, chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
💡 Tip: Ensure okra is dry after trimming to minimize sliminess. - 3
Add olive oil, water or broth, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to the bowl. Toss everything gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
💡 Tip: Using broth instead of water will add an extra layer of flavor. - 4
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or casserole dish.
- 5
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- 6
Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the sauce has slightly thickened.
💡 Tip: Baking uncovered allows the vegetables to roast and the sauce to reduce. - 7
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot as a side dish or as a light main course with crusty bread.
💡 Tip: Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness that complements the baked vegetables.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To minimize sliminess, you can lightly sauté the okra for a few minutes before baking, or rinse the trimmed okra with cold water and dry it thoroughly.
- ✓If you don't have fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes (drained) can be used as a substitute.
- ✓A pinch of sugar can be added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes if they are not very sweet.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced bell peppers (any color) along with the onions and tomatoes.
- Include a few slices of Macedonian sausage (kremvursi or similar) for a non-vegetarian version.
- A tablespoon of tomato paste can be added for a richer tomato flavor.