Okra recipes: the benefits of okra and cooking ideas

Okra, also known as ladies' fingers because of their appearance, can be added to just about anything - including stews, curries and soups.

With more and more people resorting to a plant-based diet okra is slowly becoming the ingredient of choice to add substance to stews, curries and stir fry - and it can also be enjoyed as a simple, tasty snack. Okra is part of the marrow family and looks a little bit like a small courgette. It's produced mainly in West Africa and South Asia and is a staple in those cuisines.

What are the benefits of eating okra?

The benefits of adding ladies' fingers to your diet is massive. As well as being high in vitamins A and C it's also high in fibre and promotes healthy skin. In the long run it can reduce your risk of heart disease and help prevent diabetes.

What are the effects of eating okra?

Once you've scoffed down your favourite okra curry or soup, it gets to work straight away by alkalising the body and stabilising your blood sugar. Not only does it aid your vision, it also supports your colon health and prevents constipation.

Okra recipes

This superfood really does benefit you from head to toe, so check out these inspirational recipes.

Samharya bhinda

This Samharya bhinda recipe is great to have as a snack or goes perfectly as a side dish to any curry. Get the recipe here.

Crispy Indian ladies' fingers

This recipe by My Heart Beets is said to taste a little like spicy green beans but better!  Sprinkle on top of soup or salad for a crouton alternative. Get the recipe here.

 Okra with ginger and sesame seeds

Try this delicious recipe with roti as a main course. Any left overs can be easily stored in the fridge for a coupe of days and enjoyed as a light snack. Get the recipe here.

Okra soup with assorted meats

This delicious warming soup recipe that's full of healthy ingredients. Get the recipe here.

Okra stew

If you're a meat eater why not give this hearty stew a go. Get the recipe here.

Okra corn fritters

There's nothing better than comfort food and these fritters are just that. A naughty (and slightly healthy) snack- just add your favourite dipping sauce. Get the recipe here.

Fisherman's okra soup

Fisherman's soup is a traditional Nigerian soup, It takes less than half an hour to make and is so famous in Nigeria, books and poems have been written about how delicious this dish is. Get the recipe here.

Coconut curry

This is probably the simplest recipes out there. Impress your dinner guests with this nutritious vegan meal. Follow the recipe written in the caption above, and serve with brown rice and naan.

Okra with soy and bonito flakes

Ladies' fingers are used a lot in Asian cooking too. Try this easy dish for an alternative snack to edamame beans. Get the recipe here.

Words by Leanne Carr