Nyama na Okra Stew
A hearty and flavorful beef and okra stew, simmered in a rich tomato-based broth with aromatic spices. This dish showcases the use of okra as a natural thickener, common in Tanzanian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef chuck(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 medium Large onion(chopped)
- 6 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1.5 tablespoons Ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon White pepper
- 2 cups Water or beef broth
- 2 large Large tomatoes(blended or 1.5 cups tomato sauce)
- 1 tablespoon Tomato paste
- 1 medium Green chili pepper(seeded and minced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger(crushed or minced (1-inch piece))
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 2 cups Okra(fresh, cut into 1-inch pieces (or one 10-oz package frozen okra, thawed))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, ground coriander, ground cumin, and white pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Pour in the water or beef broth, blended tomatoes (or tomato sauce), tomato paste, minced green chili, and crushed ginger. Stir well to combine.
- 4
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover partly, and simmer until the beef is tender, about 45-60 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the prepared okra and salt. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the stew has thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- 6
Serve hot, perhaps with ugali or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use beef broth instead of water.
- ✓If using fresh okra, ensure it's well-rinsed and cut into uniform pieces.
- ✓To reduce sliminess from okra, some prefer to lightly sauté it before adding to the stew, or ensure it cooks thoroughly.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers along with the okra.
- For a spicier stew, increase the amount of green chili or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.