Ugandan Okra and Beef Stew (Enyanya n'Ente)
A savory and slightly viscous stew made with tender beef, fresh okra, and a blend of aromatic spices, reflecting the common use of okra in Ugandan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 750 g Beef(stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 500 g Okra(trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 large Onions(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/2 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 500 ml Water or beef broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Coriander leaves(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until well-seared on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- 3
Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 5
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to break down.
- 6
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the water or beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
- 7
Add the cut okra to the stew. Stir well, cover, and continue to cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the okra is tender and has released some of its thickening properties. Avoid over-stirring the okra to minimize sliminess.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the stew is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
- 9
Serve hot, garnished with chopped coriander leaves. This stew pairs well with ugali, rice, or matoke.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To reduce the sliminess of okra, you can briefly blanch it in boiling water before adding it to the stew, or add a splash of lemon juice towards the end of cooking.
- ✓Ensure the beef is tender before adding the okra.
- ✓Don't overcook the okra, as it can become mushy.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Include other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of water.