In Zimbabwe we cook okra differently,. This is one of Zimbabwe's traditional dishes.
It doesn't need many ingredients, its quick and easy. The way Zimbabweans prepare their okra is different from other African countries. For example, in Nigeria and Ghana they prepare their okra soup with some types of sea food and other exotic meat. However us Zimbabweans like to keep it simple and the ingredients are all affordable.
This okra soup recipe was handed down from generation to generation in our family. My father is the one that actually passed on this recipe to me. I was flattered and excited because I used to watch him prepare it, but now i can finally make it myself. So, out of the kindness of my heart, I decided to share this recipe with you guys.
Lets get cooking!
Ingredients:
65g of chopped tomatoes
310g of chopped okra
1/2 tsp of salt
1/2 tsp of bicarbonate of soda
180ml of boiling water
2 finger chilli (optional)
Food preparation equipment:
Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon
Chef's knife
Chopping board
Method
Firstly, we need to prepare the ingredients to get them ready. Thinly slice the okra, chop your tomatoes or you can use tinned chopped tomatoes. Boil the water. The stove should be on medium heat.
In the saucepan put the okra, tomatoes, bicarbonate of soda, salt and then add the water. Whisk the ingredient together using a wooden spoon. Whisk for 15 minutes but taking 2 minutes breaks in between.
3. The video above shows how to whisk the okra soup. This allows the okra to brake down into small pieces and it also combines all the ingredients together. while you are coking this okra soup you will notice that it foams up, continue whisking to avoid it over flowing. The okra soup should change colour to brown-ish and the texture should change to thick and runny. That's how you know its ready.
Enjoy!
This okra soup is to be eaten with sadza (papa). Please DO NOT USE FORK OR SPOON to eat it. Strictly use your hands. Wash your hands first, then dig in and enjoy.