Vanuatuan-style Okra Soup

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Bhindi kadhi to Vanuatuan cuisine, the traditional yogurt-based curry is transformed into a flavorful soup. The spices and seasonings are adjusted to incorporate the tropical flavors of Vanuatu, and the dish is made more suitable for a soup by adding more liquid and adjusting the cooking technique. We alse have the original recipe for Bhindi kadhi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) okra, sliced 500g (1.1 lb) okra, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red chili, finely chopped 1 red chili, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 400ml (1 2/3 cups) coconut milk 400ml (1 2/3 cups) coconut milk
• 500ml (2 cups) vegetable broth 500ml (2 cups) vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red chili to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced okra to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder over the okra. Stir well to coat the okra with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the okra is tender.
6. 6.
   Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
7. 7.
   Remove the pot from heat and garnish the soup with fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve the Vanuatuan-style Okra Soup hot with rice or bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Okra — To reduce the sliminess of okra, you can soak the sliced okra in water with a splash of vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier soup, add more red chili or include some chopped fresh chili peppers.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more vegetable broth if desired.
• Serve the soup with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of tanginess.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavors to your liking.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Vanuatuan-style Okra Soup as a main course with steamed rice or crusty bread. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled fish or roasted vegetables.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a drizzle of coconut milk for an attractive presentation. Serve it in colorful bowls or coconut shells to enhance the tropical vibe.