Shandong-style Stir-Fried Okra

Ingredients

In this Shandong-style adaptation, the traditional Greek Bamies is transformed by incorporating Shandong cuisine's characteristic flavors and cooking techniques. The original dish typically includes tomatoes and olive oil, while the Shandong version replaces these ingredients with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and vinegar. The cooking method also changes from stewing to stir-frying, resulting in a dish that is more vibrant, aromatic, and packed with umami flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Bamies, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) okra 500g (1.1 lb) okra
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the okra and trim the stems. Cut them into bite-sized pieces.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the okra to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili flakes (if using).
6. 6.
   Pour the sauce over the okra and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until the okra is cooked through and coated in the sauce.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Okra — Make sure to wash and trim the okra before cooking. Cutting them into bite-sized pieces helps with even cooking and easier consumption.

Tips & Tricks

• To reduce the sliminess of okra, you can blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before stir-frying.
• Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference.
• For added freshness, squeeze some lemon juice over the dish before serving.
• Serve the stir-fried okra with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and texture.

Serving advice

Shandong-style Stir-Fried Okra is best served hot as a main dish. It pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Shandong-style Stir-Fried Okra in a vibrant dish, allowing the bright green okra to stand out against the sauce. Consider using a traditional Chinese-style serving plate or a modern ceramic dish to showcase the colors and textures of the dish.