Adobong Okra with a Twist

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) okra, ends trimmed 1 lb (450g) okra, ends trimmed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 23g, 9g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms to the pan and cook until slightly softened.
4. 4.
   Add the okra and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, bay leaf, and black pepper. Mix well.
6. 6.
   Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the okra and vegetables.
7. 7.
   Cover the pan and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the okra is tender.
8. 8.
   Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Okra — To retain the crispness of okra, avoid overcooking. Cook it just until tender to maintain its texture.
• Bell peppers — For a crunchier texture, cook the bell peppers for a shorter time. If you prefer softer peppers, cook them a bit longer.
• Mushrooms — Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor and texture. Sliced cremini or button mushrooms work well in this recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper or a dash of chili flakes.
• Serve the Adobong Okra with steamed rice for a complete meal.
• Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the dish by adding more or less brown sugar and vinegar, according to your taste preference.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.
• Garnish the dish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Adobong Okra as a main course with steamed rice or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. The savory flavors of the dish complement a variety of other Filipino dishes.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cooked okra, bell peppers, and mushrooms on a serving platter, and drizzle the sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy the vibrant and enticing presentation.